You’re probably reading this on Thanksgiving. Maybe you’ve already stuffed yourself on turkey, sweet potatoes, and pie. Maybe you’re taking a break from the football game. Maybe you’re trying to escape the in-laws. But there’s one thing I really want you to hear.

We all know the question. “If a tree falls in the forest and no one is there to hear it, does it make a sound?” This year I was thinking, “If a pastor feels gratitude in his heart, but doesn’t express it, is it really gratitude?” So here goes.

Thank you. That’s my message. Thank you for the privilege of being your pastor. Thank you for the opportunity to serve in an amazing church. Thank you for the grace to learn, to fail, to grow, and to learn some more. Thank you for memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you for serving alongside me in some amazing and sacrificial ways. And thank you for allowing me to be part of your journey toward God. Sometimes the journey is full of delight and discovery. Sometimes it’s full of pain and confusion. Sometimes it’s a “long obedience in the same direction.” Regardless, thank you for inviting me to be part of that journey.

I thank my God every time I remember you. (Philippians 1:3)

My prayer is that you will be overwhelmed with the gratitude that comes from receiving God’s gift of grace. I look forward to seeing you this weekend.  

-Pastor Mark