Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses . . . let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us. Hebrews 12:1
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
It has often been noted that a mark of Christian discipleship is an “attitude of gratitude.” While I try to live each day that way, I always find that the month of November heightens my awareness of all the reasons to live every day with that attitude of gratitude.
November always begins with our commemoration of All Saints as we remember and give thanks to God for the lives of that “great cloud of witnesses” who have gone before us. When we think of all those saints who now rest from their labors, our loved ones and all those whose faithfulness in the past have made it possible for us to be part of God’s family here and now, we are filled to overflowing with thankfulness.
Near the end of the month of November we join with others across our country to celebrate a great national Day of Thanksgiving, a time to remember and give thanks for the abundance which we enjoy in this land. We live in a time when it seems that many people focus on differences among us and lose sight of all that we share in common. An “attitude of gratitude” can help us more easily find common ground with our neighbors, even those with whom we may have differences of opinion.
I pray that you will be strengthened and inspired by the overwhelming abundance of God’s grace and mercy to live this and every day with an attitude of gratitude.
Thanks be to God!
Pastor Wayne Matthias-Long