“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
What is your favorite Christmas present? I know. The standard answer is Jesus. That’s the one everyone thinks the pastor is looking for. I mean some earthly gift. It could be something someone gave you or something they did for you.
I received a great present the other night - not from Marie but from many people. And I bet they didn’t know they gave it to me. What was it? A full church.
Week in and week out I see the empty pews. Though I am immensely thankful for my small, faithful congregation - my friends - those vacant seats cause me some frustration and sadness. Christmas Eve was different. The pews were full. Many voices sang as one to celebrate the birth of Christ. On that one night, the congregation was together. We truly were like the heavenly host proclaiming the Lord’s arrival. For this, I am thankful to all who made worship happen: alter guild, vessel-keepers, Marge, Ellie, Kelly, Anna, the choir, the decorators, Dave and Candy - to name but a few - and to all who came and worshipped. You filled my heart and the hearts of our “regulars” with joy.
As we travel through the Christmas season and into the other seasons of the year - both liturgical and secular - let a spirit of thankfulness go with us. We have a lot to be thankful for. We only need to look for it.
Prayer: Lord God, we give you thanks for coming to dwell with us. We thank you for the redemption you have brought. Fill our hearts with a spirit of thankfulness always. Help us, O Lord, to give thanks even for the “empty pews” in our lives. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.