Our 25th Anniversary is fast approaching, and many of us are busy with preparations for our celebration on December 5th. Yet, while we are busy getting things ready, it would also be a good idea to prepare ourselves for this celebration. Here is something I would like for us to try:

Think of a positive interaction that you have had with someone else in the congregation in the past. It may have been a short moment – a laugh, a hug and a smile, a reunion – or it may have been a more prolonged interaction – a conversation over coffee, a shoulder to cry on, a Bible study. Whatever it was, I would like for you to share your thanksgiving for that interaction with two persons: (1) the one(s) you shared it with, and (2) God. I will set some additional goals, as well: (1) Try to do this within the next two weeks, (2) try to practice this with more than one person, and (3) try to practice this with someone you may not normally interact with.

Whether you have been a part of this family for 6 months or 16 years, you are part of this congregation’s history. The body of Christ needs people to function, and you have contributed to the 25 years of life of this congregation – and so have your brothers and sisters sitting around you. Thank them and thank God that you have had the blessing of interacting with each other, of sharing in the blessings of Jesus Christ our Lord, and pray that we may be able to do so for many, many years to come.