Pastor's Weekly Word

We are living in a secular crisis. Generational theorists would tell us that this is the fourth major secular crisis we have had since the founding of our country. Relationships are frayed. Division is high. Conflict feels inevitable. We are in a secular crisis.

 

One thing being in a secular crisis can do is cause us to appreciate what we already have more fully. We can find ourselves having greater appreciation for the places in our lives that are blessed. Paul was in prison when he wrote to the Philippians. Perhaps that is part of the reason he was so thankful for them. “I thank my God every time I remember you,” he tells them. Oh, he gives thanks in other letters too, but not quite like he does here.

 

Taking a cue from Paul, I hope you can spend this week in a place of thanksgiving. One thing, for sure, that I am thankful for is you. I am deeply grateful to be the pastor at Canyon Creek. You are generous givers. You are spiritually vibrant. You are dedicated to the church. You are gracious and warm and authentic in your faith. Like Paul with the Philippians, I too am “constantly praying with joy because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now.” Thank you for being such a wonderful church. Thank you for simply being who you are. May Christ gift you this season with a spirit of thanksgiving.