Well, we’ve officially concluded the “Journey” small groups campaign for 2007, with wonderful results. (Check back soon for survey results and testimonials from participants - and visit www.newchurch.org for more information on “The Journey” campaign).
As we approach Thanksgiving, during what has been in many ways a trying time for our congregation, I’m reminded very much of a Thanksgiving sermon by Bishop Louis King given several years ago, where he ties that message to the importance of healthy relationships which grow the Church in our hearts.
The Lord has given us the Word, not just so we will know the truth, but so that we may do what is good. For the Lord knows something that we frequently forget: true happiness is found in making other people happy; no one who is really selfish can be happy; selfishness is unhappiness.
The Lord wants everyone to be happy. More than anything else He wants us to make use of the truths He has given us. This is the real harvest, the harvest that the Lord loves more than the things that grow in the field. For the Lord loves the spiritual harvest of the good things that people do for each other, and to live according to truth is to do what is good. This is what we should remember on Thanksgiving Day, for Thanksgiving is a day of remembrance, a day set aside to think of the Lord and all the good things that He has done for us and to thank Him. And let us, in turn, do good to others so that all people may be happy in the Lord’s harvest.
Let’s remember to “be the church” to each other this Thanksgiving, so that we celebrate the Lord’s true harvest, peace and true happiness among His Children.
Your friend,
Pastor Ethan
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