Freddie Unlistening

Our backyard chipmunk, Freddie, sometimes has simply heard enough.  I think that his expression is sometimes how we react after Thanksgiving.  We unfortunately move past the focus on thankfulness and gratitude for a mindless return to the daily grind of life. 

How full are you now that Thanksgiving Day has come and gone?  When it comes to blessings, many of us are still more than filled by the generous portions of Thanksgiving fare that we consumed.  All of us should be overflowing with the ongoing blessings that God provides through His presence in our lives and the generous gifts He sends our way. 

Fortunately, we are not chipmunks.  We are open to continuing to hear about God’s blessings in our lives with thankfulness and gratitude even outside of Thanksgiving! 

Not only do we have the opportunity to listen and celebrate, but we also have the opportunity to share our blessings with others.  First, we can pray for God’s blessings on those engaged in ministry:  our pastors, lay leaders in our churches, church planters, Bible Study leaders, Youth Leaders, and the list goes on.  Being thankful for those who serve God faithfully opens the door to our faithfully lifting them up in prayer.

Second, Giving Tuesday provides a way for us to share blessings with others in specific, tangible ways.  If you would like to share your blessings to bless others who are studying for their ministry leadership certificate, or if you would like to encourage the work of church planting, then Giving Tuesday just might be the opportunity for you. 

You can check out Giving Tuesday opportunities here:  https://archive.seventhdaybaptist.org/givingtuesday/

Grace and peace,

Carl Greene, Executive Director, Seventh Day Baptist General Conference of USA and Canada

• Photo courtesy of Samuel Greene.