Recognizing Blessings and Giving Thanks

This morning a shipment of food was delivered for Elsie's Pantry.  How unexpected it was!  It's wonderful to discover how blessings can come at times when we aren't expecting anything.  It also is cause for giving thanks.  On this Thanksgiving Eve I find myself wanting to give thanks for the people who have donated food throughout this year for the food pantry.  These individuals and stores have opened up their hearts to help the needy in our surrounding communities.

I have been reflecting on what I as a pastor can be thankful for at Savior Divine during this year.  I list what comes to mind:

1.  Having a food pantry in connection with Moraine Valley Community Church that has helped so many people during this year.  (October set a record in terms of number of clients helped)
2.  For Moraine Valley Community Church coming on board in space-sharing with us at Savior Divine.
3.  For a repaved driveway thanks to MVCC.
4.  For the repair of our vandalized air conditioning system at no cost to us.
5.  For the repair of a broken window through the generosity of the member of another congregation and not charging us.
6.  For the two grants we have received for continuing our bus ministry for this year.
7.  For the dedication of members of Savior Divine in all their help in worship and upkeep of property and in the operation of the parish.
8.  For the response to the Discipleship Growth Study.
9.  For keeping our ministry going another year by the grace of God.

Yes, I am grateful and will give thanks in my PRAYERS for what God has given at Savior Divine.

How is it with you?  Are you thankful for all you have received this year that you can lift up in prayer? Having a sense of gratitude will go a long way and know that God must love it hearing every word of our thanks!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Spontaneous Prayer

My style of praying has changed somewhat during our regular Sunday worship.  We usually have the general prayers printed out in the bulletin for each Sunday.  These prayers  would not all be the same from one Sunday to the next.  Lately, I have switched to a different mode where I am doing more with just spontaneous praying when we get to the Pastoral Prayer (and even have some quiet background music!).

With this kind of praying I feel more flexible and can even focus more on major happenings - locally, nationally, or worldwide that may occur at the last minute.  I do enjoy being more flexible and feel it helps me to have more of an up-to-date ministry.

Now lets think about our own personal praying.  For myself, I have a number of things for which I pray at home - my godchildren, family, the day's work, for safety and protection. However, I do find that at times I am using the same phrases or have been praying for the same concerns.  Yes, I would like to be more spontaneous and move in a free form direction.  I don't want to appear stilted in my praying, but let it be heartfelt as I approach God in prayer.

So, how is it with you?  Do you feel a freedom in your praying or do you find yourself tied down to the same phrases?  Is your praying letting you be yourself and speak freely to God?