Thankgiving 2010

In a wavering economy, in times of uncertainty, perhaps separated from family and friends, yet we give thanks to our gracious God.  And it is in thanksgiving that we are strengthened.  "In everything give thanks.  For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus." 

One only needs to read the daily news to understand the blessings of God.  For, there is always someone less fortunate than me.  There are the homeless.  There are the hungry. There are the diseased.  There are the broken hearted.   But, even if we are currently in dispair, the believer in Jesue has hope to endure.  "I am convinced that nothing can separate us from the love of God which Christ Jesus has shown."

For what am I thankful?  In addition to salvation by grace through faith in Jesus, I am thankful for the body of Christ who has recently helped me through some challenging health issues.  I am thankful for my family who has stayed by my side even though we were separated by thousands of miles.  I am thankful for what health God has granted through the years.  I am thankful for the freedoms that my country has allowed for so many years.  And, I am thankful for those who have encouraged and supported my family as we seek to serve Christ in Ukraine.  To God be the glory for all that He has done!

In closing, I will share some good news for which I am thankful today.  This week the doctors gave me a good report.  They have released me to travel back overseas.  The airline company was able to secure a return flight to Ukraine on Thanksgiving Day.  So, soon I will be back with my family and friends in Kiev.  So, there is much for which I am thankful.  Thanks for your prayers!  Have a great Thanksgiving!