As I write this today, I am thoroughly enjoying the slightly cooler temperature. Walking the dog was very enjoyable as was working in the garden and yes, you guessed it, power washing the never-ending patio. It was truly enjoyable sleeping with the windows open. The house smelled of fresh air and had lost that stuffy closed in aroma. I am thankful for this small thing.
Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus.
1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT
If we’re supposed to be grateful for everything and all circumstances, that includes the small stuff as well as the big stuff.
How often do you consciously take time, even just a moment, to thank God for the small details of your life or a seemingly insignificant experience?
So here goes:
I am thankful for this lovely day that the Lord has provided.
I am thankful that the lost banner was found.
I am thankful that out of the blue, my dear friend called, just to say hello.
I am thankful that I was able to sell my brother in law’s gigantic aquarium. (Thankful that it is now out of my garage!)
I am thankful that they lowered the speed limit on my street. (I want to be thankful that the new speed limit will be respected, but I do have my doubts)
I am thankful for Graceview and for all of its congregants, who I look upon as family.
I am thankful that when I have had to provide the piano for the morning service, that God’s hand guided me, stilled my nerves and allowed all things to proceed smoothly.
I am thankful that I am in good health.
I am thankful for my dog, Ellie Mae.
I am thankful that my mother and husband are well cared for at West Park Long Term Care.
Your Turn
What are some specific, small, simple, everyday things that you are grateful for today? Have you experienced receiving joy when you’ve given thanks for small things with a full heart? Make a list to keep or to share. I would love to know your “small things” that make you grateful.
Worship Calendar
June 21 A Survivor in the Wilderness Genesis 16:1-12; 21:8-21 Rev. Eric Lee
June 28 Faith Tested, God Provides Genesis 22:1-14 Rev. Eric Lee
July 5 Wretched Man, Glorious Saviour Romans 7:14-25 Rev. Eric Lee
NEWS AND ANNOUNCEMENTS
Missing no Longer
It seems that the missing banner has been found. All 6 are accounted for and are ready to assume their positions on the wall for Advent and for Lent. Praise be!
A Summer Devotional Update (June 16):
A new edition of These Days (July/August/September), as well as the current edition of Our Daily Bread (June/July/August) are available on the table in the church vestibule and in the devotional box on the church porch.
Common Scents
Please be advised that our church has a scent-free protocol. It seems that some of our dear parishioners feel unwell due to heavy floral smells. Please be considerate of those in our congregation who are affected by strong smells and odors and refrain from perfumes or colognes when coming to worship on Sunday mornings. Thank you one and all.
Lemonade for Fellowship Time
Effective June 14 we will be serving lemonade at the Fellowship time after worship. If you are so inclined to donate a box or 2 of cookies to help cover the summer months, it would be very much appreciated. Please give your donations to Kathy or Susan so that we can store them safely during the summer months. Many thanks to those who have already donated.
September Bible Study
Jacob Birch from the Canadian Bible Society will be leading an 8-week bible study beginning on Tuesday, September 22 at 12:15. He will be offering an overview of the bible from Genesis all the way to Revelations. Mark this in your calendars as it should prove to be a fascinating journey through the Bible.