Scripture – Philippians 4:4-9 NRSVUE
4 Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, Rejoice. 5 Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6 Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7 And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. 9 As for the things that you have learned and received and heard and noticed in me, do them, and the God of peace will be with you.
From Rev. Heather Leffler
These words embrace me and fill me with joy. In knowing the Holy One through Jesus, I can confidently lift everything to God in prayer. I trust that whatever I ask for, whatever the answer, I belong to God and all will be well. We know God is with us in life, in death and in life beyond death. This knowledge fills me with gratitude.
Worshiping with you, enjoying precious time with family, delicious food and the glorious colours of fall, it has been a perfect Thanksgiving. I was reminded of a quote I have always loved from Meister Eckhart, If the only prayer you ever say in your entire life is ‘thank you’, it will be enough. Meister Eckhart, the writer of Philippians and the old hymn remind us that, “the joy of the Lord is our strength.” May we offer our prayers of gratitude and be strengthened in our faith in the One whose steadfast love and mercy never end.
Contemplation and Conversation
What do you give thanks for today?
Prayer
Holy One, even as we give thanks for this holiday
filled with good food and time shared with family and friends,
we remember with gratitude all that you have given us.
We thank you for the gift of life and love,
for the beauty of the earth and the joy of belonging.
Most of all, we give thanks for Jesus, the bread of life,
who fills us with meaning and purpose,
and for our church family, where we find connection, hope, and care. Amen.
If you missed Sunday’s worship service, visit our Rockwood Stone YouTube page.
