Giving Thanks

Well, in a couple of days we will be celebrating the holiday of Thanksgiving.  The year has gone by, and now it's November 2-thousand-ten.  Can you believe it?  My kids are always saying how slow time seems to go, how tomorrow can't get here soon enough- especially when there's something they want to do!  One day, when they grow up and realize that their parents aren't as crazy as they think they are, they will understand what we mean when we say, "My how time flies!"

Since it's that time of the year I would give you a few items I am thankful for.

* I am thankful that the Lord has made me a pastor's wife.  At first, I just knew He had lost his mind, along with my husband who kept telling me that God was calling him to the ministry.  The Lord knows what He's doing even is we don't like it at the time!

* I am thankful for the strong leader in my husband.  He leads us spiritually and God has changed his heart toward Him and he is the best husband I could ever ask for.

* I am thankful for my children, of course!  I am always getting complements as to their behavior or how sweet they are.  In my presence and out, they have shown their kindness to others and to each other.

* I am thankful for our church.  The Lord has seem fit to send several visitors lately and I pray, in His time, He will grow our church until we are no longer able to fit into the conference room of the hotel where we are meeting.  I pray mostly that we are faithful to Him and His Word, above all else.

* I am thankful for friends who keep me humble.  For people who are willing to correct me, whether it be spelling on a facebook post, or in a behavior that is not becoming of a Christian.  I am a sinner.  Everyone knows that.  Sometime it's good to be reminded that I am not always correct or even close to being right!

* For volunteering.  Last year about this time, my husband announced that he wanted to get more involved in the community.  He started searching for an opportunity in which to serve in the Olive Branch, MS area.  He asked me to find more info about a ministry called Olive Branch Emergency Food Pantry.  I went the week before Christmas, which was a big mistake!  They were so busy that I wasn't even able to talk to someone.  I left my name and number hoping someone would call me.  They did and I have been volunteering ever since.  The Lord has given me such a heart for this ministry.  I have a purpose there.  I am using my talents to help where they need it now, but I have a burden for this place.  Does He have a plan for me?  Will have to wait and see.

* I am thankful for the opportunity I have to educate my children at home.  For the burden that I have, probably greater than it should be that my children do not belong in the public school system.  I am grateful for others who are willing to help, like at L.I.F.E. to educate other homeschool children.  We are a community!  I love my homeschool friends!

* I am thankful to have friends who I have known for a long time.  Some I have known since I was in 3rd grade (public school, mind you) and up.  Some, I have only recently known but will probably know them for a long time.  Here's to friends- new and old!

* I could keep naming but I will bundle the last of them: protection, shelter, and food.  The Lord provides through many channels.  Whether it is food in our tummies, a house that is being paid for, and protection during the night while we sleep or even while I am out and about driving myself and my family places.

What are you thankful for?  In this season of your life, do you have many things to be grateful for?  I pray the Lord blesses you.  Have a great Thanksgiving Holiday and know that, if you are reading this, then you are then, truly blessed!

Michele McCrory
Servant of the Lord