November. The eleventh month of the year. Daylight saving time ends. The weather is turning colder. Nature is preparing for its Winter slumber. And now is the time for us to pause, remember the year that has been, and give thanks for the blessings of our lives.
We are blessed to live in a country, despite our turbulent political climate, that is relatively safe. A place where most of us have somewhere to sleep at night and an abundance of food to put on our tables. A place where we have productive employment that helps give our lives meaning.
As we remember these blessings, I pray we will be motivated to become a blessing to our neighbors, so that all who are in need will have those needs met.
This year, I find myself more grateful than normal. Recently I had to undergo abdominal surgery to deal with an attack of diverticulitis. For the past six months I was treated with several courses of antibiotics; three CT scans; a visit to a urologist; getting poked and prodded in places I prefer not to detail; Four weeks ago, I finally had the surgery.
Throughout this time, I have been grateful for Josh Leu, pastor of my home church in Great Bend. I have been grateful for Terri Horde-Owens, our General Minister and president who called to check up on me. I have been grateful for Tom Stanley’s support and willingness to pick up the slack in regional ministry during my time off.
I have also been grateful for the cards, emails and phone calls from family, friends, and colleagues. I am especially thankful for those in leadership throughout the Christian Church in Kansas for their support, their concern, and their leadership in this time.
We truly have a great regional church. Kansas has been a blessing to me and my family. I pray that all of you have a happy Thanksgiving, and I hope that you will take the time to say, “thank you” to your family and friends for the blessing they are to you.