Pastor’s Corner November 2011

The following was published in our monthly newsletter, the Redeemer Report.

After a very hectic early Fall, November is one of my favorite months. I take two weeks of vacation time to chase big whitetails with a stick and string. I love being around people for the vast majority of the year, but November is time to get alone in the woods, with the trees, the crisp air, squirrels, some yelping turkeys, my trusty compound bow, and hopefully and old monarch buck on the trail below. More important than my pursuit of the Odocoileus Virginianus in November, is the Thanksgiving holiday. What a great name for a special day of remembrance!

Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving; let us make a joyful noise to him with songs of praise! -Psalm 95:2 ESV

My recent study for a sermon on Mark 8 where Jesus does a repeat miracle by feeding four thousand people with a few loaves and fishes gave me a different perspective for Thanksgiving this year. I was struck by the significance of Jesus repeating a miracle. We need reminders of God’s powerful provision. One of the take aways of Jesus’ feeding the four thousand is God’s willingness to repeat His superabounding grace. When celebrating Thanksgiving this year, I suggest not only remembering God’s past provisions but also celebrating what He will most definitely do for us in the year ahead.

God promises to provide all our needs, but He seldom does just that. He almost always give us way more than we need. He lavishes us with all sorts of good gifts. I am asking God to give me a more thankful spirit. I want not only to look back and give thanks, but to look ahead and do the same. Why not? We know God won’t give us just what we need.

In the Lamb,
PastorTony Felich