I hope that you have a blessed Thanksgiving and that you will pause remember to be thankful to God. Here are some things for which I am thankful.

Thankful for – Life – In him was life, and that life was the light of all mankind. John 1:4 I hope that everyone who reads this knows Christ as Savior and the abundant, eternal life He wants to share with each of us.

Love – For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. John 3:16 Love is more than a feeling, it is a promise. God loves us and he wants us to love each other. This is not about how we feel but how we treat our neighbor.

Hope – while we wait for the blessed hope—the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ, Titus 2:13 The hope I have in Jesus is not wishful thinking – it is knowing that even though I cannot see how God is at work – He is and He is at work for my good and His glory.

Mercy – But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his immense patience as an example for those who would believe in him and receive eternal life. 1 Timothy 1:16 Mercy is an opportunity for each of us to change the direction of the world. Instead of anger, fear and judgement – we can choose to love like Jesus loves.

Forgiveness – Therefore, my friends, I want you to know that through Jesus the forgiveness of sins is proclaimed to you. Acts 13:38 Peace – And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:7 Grace – But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord. Romans 5:20 Grace is the unmerited favor of God on underserving, sinful people. It is not rational or natural as we would see it.

This is why it is simply amazing! There’s a radical equality at the core of grace. None of us are deserving of God’s grace, so it’s not dependent on social status, wealth or intelligence. There is equality between kings and peasants, the prominent and the unheralded, rule followers and rule breakers.

I am thankful for everyone who takes the time to read this article. I appreciate all the kind support and love this community shares with me and with First Baptist Church.

We will be celebrating Christmas all December. We would love to meet you and worship with you! We are located at 400 west Foley and Services are Sunday’s at 10 a.m. and Wednesday’s at 6 p.m. Learn more about us at www.eufaulafbc.org Know that you are loved! Pastor J.