November 2023 Pastor’s Letter

From the Desk of Pastor Melissa

Dear Friends,

Let’s talk about the power of gratitude…

When we were small children, one of the first lessons we received was to say, thank you. A gift comes your way and you express your thankfulness. It’s simple, clear and exuberant. As we age, being grateful can become more complicated. We get all caught up in the pace of “adulting”. Our personal and corporate lives get hit with unexpected difficulties, and the news is filled with tragedy that is hard to fathom, breaks our hearts and stokes our fears. All of this can make it hard to hang on to gratitude.

We need gratitude in our lives.

“This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” Psalm 118:24

People who take the time to feel gratitude are more positive. According to many studies, positive folk experience less stress, feel more alive, sleep better and express more compassion and kindness in their daily lives.

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:6-7

So how can we cultivate gratitude in our lives?

Slow yourself down. Take time to pray about what and who you are thankful for. Think about what is important or essential and appreciate what is good in your life. Let yourself breathe. Tell someone how much they mean to you. Show appreciation to the people you interact with—your gratitude and kindness can change someone’s day. Gather with family and friends, visit, sing, pray—show your thankfulness.

Come to think about it, worship is a great place to do all of these things!

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

On November 5th, All Saints Day, we will pause and celebrate the lives of all the people we love who have gone on to life eternal. I hope to see you, your family, and your friends in worship.

I look forward to seeing you, your family and your friends in worship!

Pastor Melissa