Thanksgiving Message

​As you drive through Wisconsin farm country this time of year the seas of green from soybeans
and swaying corn stalks have given way to planes of barren earth. The farmers that have planted
and tended the seeds have brought in the harvest. What remains is the brown earth and the
promise that the cycle will begin again in spring. That may be all we see out the window of the car
as we pass by, but lessons from our upbringing remind us that this time of year we should also be
grateful for that harvest. Memories of Thanksgiving past and sharing “what we are thankful for”
around the table also reminds us of the many other objects of our gratitude. There are many things
that we are thankful for. I often see gratitude as a two-fold gift. Our heart is warmed by the memory
but also gratitude opens our hearts to the many other things God has so generously provided. I
would like to share some of the things that I am grateful for this year.
For everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected, provided it is received with
thanksgiving; for it is sanctified by God’s word and by prayer. – 1 Timothy 4:4-5
I am thankful for who we are. We are God’s people, both broken and blessed. We recognize that
we are a gift and that even our flaws are part of a beautiful story. In response to the questions
“Who we are?” and “Why are we here?” on our Ministry Site Profile the MET said we have a feeling
of family that is shared with members and visitors alike. Individuals are accepted where they are,
broken and blessed and that we extend our love to our community. I am grateful for us.
O give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures for ever. – 1 Chronicles
16:34
I am thankful for what we have. Out of love, God richly provides. I could not share the things for
which I am grateful without acknowledging the positive aspects of our lives together and
recognizing the blessings we possess. You are an extremely generous people. When there is a
need or a job to do, you always amaze me. From financial appeals to the little things you do for
your Resurrection family that nobody knows about, you are a gift from God. I am grateful for the
good things we have together no matter how big or small often because of your generosity.
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds. – Psalm 9:1
I am thankful for all God has done for us, his beloved children. Just pause for a moment and think
about what God has done around Resurrection Lutheran Church this past year: Experiments with
being more present in our community, the work to improve our grounds, development of a campus
plan, the work of the Mission Exploration Team, the work of the Call Team, and the calling of a new
pastor just to name a few. God has done marvelous things for which I am truly grateful.
May your gratitude be a two fold gift this Thanksgiving that transforms your perspective and fills
your heart.
Thanksgiving Blessings,
Tom

(Please note that ways to get involved or help out are in italics.)
Calendar in Brief:
● Thanksgiving Service Sunday November 24th 10:00 am. Come ye thankful people come.
● Baked Goods Auction to benefit our partners Sunday November 24th 11:00 am. Come
for the fun – bid high!
● Midweek Advent Service Wednesday December 4th and 11th at 7:00 pm. Come enjoy a
break from the hectic holiday rush. Refresh yourself with the Holden Evening Prayer.
● Thank you Lunch for Pastor Steve Sunday December 8th 11:00 am. Come show your
appreciation for Pastor Steve before we bid him farewell.
● Longest Night Service Thursday December 19th 6:30 pm. Experience this special
Christmas service for those coping with grief and loss during the holiday season. Fellowship
with friends during the warm cider and cookie gathering after the service.
● Intergenerational, No Rehearsal, Christmas Program 2.0 Sunday December 22nd 10:00
am. Children of all ages are encouraged to participate.
● Christmas Eve Service Tuesday December 24th 5:30 pm.
● Pastor Steve’s Last Sunday with us December 29th.