As we begin the month of November, it is Stewardship month and a time of Thanksgiving expressing gratitude for the goodness of God in our lives.
There are so many items that are on our minds that we all must be grateful. I started counting them and trying to name them, realizing that each moment and each breath that I take is a blessing. This time of year, with seasons changing and time changing, we get to celebrate the moments.
What are those things that you are the most grateful for?
When we look around our world, there are more than 200 people being held against their will as captives in a situation that is more volatile because of the impacts on different groups. Few people being released while the escalation places more lives in jeopardy gives way to concerns for peace. We can pray for peace in this situation for everyone who is involved and especially the families waiting for some better news.
Yes, our world is in trouble on multiple fronts and just to see what is taking place less than 40 miles from Warrenville in Chicago, we can be grateful for shelter from the cold days and nights. It was a strong witness of the Oak Park (Good Shepherd Lutheran) Church to open their doors to 100 migrants who are experiencing no shelter in the beginning of the cold winter.
If we consider those who were already sleeping outdoors, this crisis adds more stress to the growing issues of homelessness, food deserts, lack of medical care and medications, clothing, and quality education just to name a few.
Several of our ABC Metro Chicago churches are lending support with warm clothing working with the local Chicago Police Departments and city to provide needed resources. While much of the work goes on behind the scenes, it is with gratitude that we all lend a helping hand wherever we can.
Our CBC efforts in Warrenville with the Johnson School are vital to establishing relationships with those in our community who need to know that we exist and are concerned about them. What a joy it is to serve and lead in this season.
In this season of Thanksgiving and gratitude, may we give thanks by continuing to be good stewards of our time, talent, and treasure.
The message on this first Sunday of November, is titled “Serving Well” and taken from Matthew 23:1-12. Looking forward to seeing you in-person and virtually, as we celebrate “All Saints’ Sunday and Holy Communion.
Pastor Frank