Sermonette: A Heart of Thanksgiving

As I considered what to write for this week’s sermonette, I came across the prayer I read at the Eddy County Ministerial Thanksgiving Service this year. As I read it once again, my mind began to think of how fitting it would be to share it now in light of the long winter months and the tendency for us to focus on the negatives of what we are facing instead of the goodness of God. My prayer is that you and I would to keep a heart of thanksgiving no matter what we face.

Philippians 4:4 (NIV) “Rejoice in the Lord Always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

“Thanksgiving Benediction”

(written by Joe Sherer, pastor of the Mount Joy Mennonite Church)

May the Lord bless you and keep you, May He make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.

May the broad expanse of God’s love and the abundance of His riches in glory, shape your perspective on your own life and needs, including those things which disappoint you.

May the eyes of your heart be open to all the blessings which surround you; may this awareness produce a harvest of generosity in your spirit.

May thankfulness rise up within you, not just during this short season, but day after day, from the early morning watch until you retire for the night.

May your prayers reflect gratitude, while also acknowledging the needs of others whose situations are so drastically different.

May thoughts of Jesus fill your mind, and hunger for God drive your soul, and love for Lord guide your speech and your actions.

And finally, may the grace, peace, and love of the triune God, protect, defend, and empower you to run with perseverance the race marked out for you.

Amen