Dear Friends and Members of Shepherd of the Hills,

We spend I lives in the midst of thanks for all of God’s providence, grace and mercy.  This season of Thanksgiving we set aside a special time to recognize these gifts.  In Luther’s explanation of the 4th petition of the Lord’s Prayer, “Give us this day our daily bread,” he says:

What does this mean? God certainly gives daily bread to everyone without our prayers, even to all evil people, but we pray in this petition that God would lead us to realize this and to receive our daily bread with thanksgiving.  What is meant by daily bread?  Daily bread includes everything that has to do with the support and needs of the body such as food, drink, clothing, shoes, house, home, land, animals, money, goods, a devout husband or Wie, devout children, devout workers, devout and faithful rulers, good government, good weather, peace, health, self-control, good reputation, good friends, faithful neighbors, and the like.

So, how do we respond in thanksgiving for all the Lord provides? 

First, we celebrate and acknowledge from whom all these good things come and that he has provided for our families.  On Thanksgiving morning at 10:30 we will gather to celebrate with the Divine Service.  1 Timothy 4:4-5 says, “Everything created by God is good, and nothing is to be rejected it it is received with thanksgiving, for it is made holy by the word of God and prayer.

Second, we demonstrate that same generosity to others in need.  The poor benefit from your generosity and receive their daily bread.  On Thanksgiving we will continue to collect special gifts and groceries for our Christmas Families program.  Anything brought in that day we will be placed on the altar as part of our worship.  Hebrews 13:16 says, “Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God. 

Third, we support the proclamation of the Gospel.  As we close out this year, please consider a special gift to the church’s budget as part of your tithes and offerings.  Galatians 6:6 says, “Let the one who is taught the word share all good things with the one who teaches.”  Our congregation has always been incredibly generous and for that I rejoice. 

Fourth, we care for the land, water and air.  Genesis 2:15 says, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it.”  We are stewards of God’s good creation.

The Lord has blessed us all bountifully!  Let us rejoice and give thanks during this Thanksgiving season.  I look forward to celebrating with you.  After the service is over on Thanksgiving consider staying and feasting together with some of your fellow brothers and sisters in the faith as we host a Thanksgiving diner here at the church.  Anyone in the community is welcome. There is a sign up sheet here in the office.  Call and sign up for something to share. 

In His Love and Service,

Pastor Rust