Pastor Rick and I were in one of our weekday afternoon prayertimes when he mentioned that he could not believe how fast 2013 has been going. As I thought about that I realized how much I needed to thank God for this year. I am thankful for the 34 years that God has kept me in His hand. That Amazing Grace and Steadfast Love that empowers me to love my co-workers, and neighbors. That unending forgivenss that reminds me to give and seek mercy and forgiveness continually. And especially to strive to love God and love my neighbor.
I am greatly thankful for the Second Greatest Gift God has given me. For nearly 25 years, the Lovely and Gracious Lisa has been my best friend, and partner in the lifelong pursuit of God. She has challenged me to holiness, bound up my wounds, and has made me laugh with joy constantly.
One of the greatest trophies of strength and grace in the later year is my 84 year old father Bret Blair. He served 26 years side by side with my mother in loving faithful ministry. For the past eight years he continued to serve as a widower. (Reminds me how thankful I am for the lives of Marie Schroeder and June Oliver)
I do not know how many notice and appreciate the greatness of Pastor Rick Oliver. Also I wonder the same for his loving and devoted wife Donna. Together these two have given themselves to serving God and people. No body travails to prepare, deliver and live out the bible as much as Pastor Rick.
When God instituted the local body of believers, His Church, He was creating something very precious. A place where believers meet to worship God, fellowship with one another, and receive discipleship training to serve God and others in a growing Christlike manner. I am especially thankful to those serve and challenge me in this ministry. For Doug Hayes who faithfully rides the van with me on Sunday mornings and Wednesday nights. For Bill and Lisa Uporsky who lovingly serve in the Wednesday night Teen Club.
As we enter 2014, we are going to probably face challenges that will test and strengthen our faith. We might lose a loved one along the way. Face physical and/or financial problems. And even fall for the temptation of sin. The one, the greatest, and only real comfort will be is that God will nor leave us or forsake us. That is the Pre-eminent Thanksgiving Praise of all!
