THANKSGIVING

In the early days of this country people had a difficult time in sickness, hunger and just a hard time in surviving but they took time to give thanks. For some “Thanksgiving” is the greatest of the holidays. I can’t mention everything but four things we need to be thankful for are the following:

Christ

Perhaps Paul was thinking of Christ when he wrote, “Thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift” (2 Cor. 9:15). The Lord died for us. He gave His life and may we give our life to Him. It has been said and it is right “Thanksgiving is Thanksliving.” Have you committed your life to the Lord? Are you attending, living and giving your best to the Lord?

Church

By church in this context I mean “brothers and sisters” who make up the spiritual house which is the church. You may have membership in many things but there is not anything like being a member and citizen of God’s family. Part of the family is in heaven and part is on earth. I am thankful for the Central church. It is not a perfect church but it is a good church. Rejoice and be glad because your reward is in heaven.

Bible

Preacher Bill Dillion has written, “The Bible is no ordinary book. Human skill or genius do not explain it. It shines with a heavenly glory… John Ruskin said that the Book of Job was the world’s greatest poem. Charles Dickens judged the parable of the Prodigal Son as the greatest short story ever written. The phrase ‘the greatest’ well describes the book we call the Bible.” Somebody has written, “Blessed Bible, how well I love it. How it does my bosom cheer. What like this has earth to covet? Oh what stores of wealth are here.”

Family

Don’t laugh when I relate this story, but the other night I thought I heard Shirley get up and I was about half awake and here is what I thought, “Oh she is sick and who is going to take care of me.” I told you not to laugh but I kept listening and found out she was not sick. I am thankful for my wife, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and others of the Casey and Brotherton family. I believe every member of the church can join in with me and say, “Thanks for our families.”

COME

Here is a way to show God you are thankful. Be in your place in Bible class and the worship assembly on the First Day of the Week. During the week I saw a good member and he reminded me that he would look for me on Sunday and for me to come with a Bible in my hand and a spring in my step and a smile on my face. Let’s do it. I’ll look for you in your place.

-Pat Casey