This week, the citizens of our great land will celebrate a wonderful tradition of thanksgiving. Thanksgiving Day is that time of the year that we remember the sacrifice of those men and women who struggled to build a home in a new land that would provide religious freedom and political liberty. In the early autumn of 1621, the Pilgrims were joined by the neighboring Native Americans in a feast to express gratitude to God for all the blessings in their lives.

As you gather in your homes and with your friends, it truly should be a time of thanksgiving. This can happen whenever, we. like the Pilgrims of old, take time to reflect on the providential love of God, and then recognize the gracious gifts of His hands.

This Thursday, my Thanksgiving will be filled with joy for all the many ways our church extends God's love and grace to a hurting world. God has led us to significant mission work this year, including a trip to strengthen our work with students in Ukraine, several teams to work in the medical mission in Guatemala, the first dinner fundraiser for the Providence Childrens Home in Kenya and sending new missionaries with your support to work with students of military personnel in Belgium and to fulltime work in Guatemala.

Even though these examples are only a sampling of all God is doing in and through us, you can still appreciate why I am thankful. It is easy to reflect on God's love for this church and to recognize His hand. It is my prayer and hope that your day of thanksgiving will be also filled with praise, joy and gratitude for what your Heavenly Father has done for you and all the blessings that God is ready to bestow in your life.