Friends, sermon writing must take priority today—which is going to be tricky even without getting up at 4 to write for you. Jacob has me wrestling with the Genesis 32 text . . . and because of travel to be with family for the holiday and an inconsistent internet connection, I’ve decided to take a week off from blogging and return to you Monday, November 28.
In the meantime, consider the life-giving priorities the apostle Paul put before Christ-followers: gratitude and glory to God, from Romans 1:21. Is this not the season to ponder anew the blessings God has heaped upon us all? And to give God the credit when credit is due? Those very actions and thoughts are foundational for our faith, so let us not be timid about showing our gratitude this week.
The blessings given to me through the Presbyterian Church have included stellar mentors, a calling in ministry, three amazing communities of faith in the Bay Area, the insistence on a good education, and a perspective on history and theology that has shaped my life. To God be the glory!
As you share Thanksgiving hospitality this week, find ways to express your gratitude to God with those you love. And when God “shows up,” be sure to acknowledge that you noticed! To God be the glory!
And I am grateful to my readers, most of them silent, but some generous with their time and insights to comment. By sharing from their perspective how they feel about Presbyterian things, they encourage all of us. This, too, is a priority this week.
And I almost forgot: I am grateful to report that my Doctor of Ministry degree has been conferred. It’s official: you can call me “Doctor,” though to most of you I remain “Mary” or perhaps “that woman.” To God be the glory!
Blessings abundant, to you and through you—Mary
Take thankful time off, friend.
Hope you have a blessed Thanksgiving!
Congratulations Dr. Mary! Rest easy this next week, if you can.
Dr. Randy (McGB)
And Dr. Mary you are one of the blessings I thank God for this Thanksgiving holiday.
Thank you, Viola, and the feeling is most certainly mutual!
Hearty congratulations on yet another milestone achieved! Life will be difficult w/o you this week but with Calvin’s ‘gratiarum actione” I will find more than enough stuff to occupy my time. I am very thankful for your important influence in my ministry life and will impatiently wait for you to return. Dave
You are very sweet, Dave; I’m sure you’ll do fine without me! But by next Monday, I will have several ideas pent up and ready to roll, I’m sure!