Pilot Knob Lutheran Gratitude and Health 11/23/2022
By now you know what you are doing for the often over-looked but very important holiday, Thanksgiving. You know what you will eat, if you are traveling, and having pumpkin pie.
With the table spread with food, drinks, and dessert it should make us pause for thanks that we have so much with great variety. We can still go to the store and buy whatever is needed on short notice. With looming food shortages and high fuel costs driving up food production and transportation costs we should have greater appreciation and not assume everything we want will always be at our finger tips. We have become increasingly aware of the long chain of events that take place from planting to our family table. It does not take much to disrupt the chain and cause shortages.
Regardless of how much we have there is one requirement of us all, expressed appreciation. We are very dependent on someone down the line for everything on the Thanksgiving table, including the table!
Throughout scripture we are commanded to give thanks to God for everything; from food to clothing, mental/physical health to life’s challenges. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
Events in life have a purpose and will be used by God for our good and His glory, therefore, we should express our thanks. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Be anxious about nothing is easier said than done. A prescription for anxiety is what follows; prayer, petition with thanksgiving present it to God in daily prayer.
“Gratitude improves psychological health. Gratitude reduces a multitude of toxic emotions, ranging for envy and resentment to frustration and regret. Robert A. Emmons, Ph.D., a leading gratitude researcher, has conducted multiple studies on the link between gratitude and well-being. His research confirms that gratitude effectively increases happiness and reduces depression.”
Have a very blessed Thanksgiving Day.
Pr. Bob Snitzer
By the Way:
Today, 4:30 No Confirmation class.
Tonight, 6:30 Thanksgiving Eve service. Bring a nonperishable food item for the FC Food Bank.
November 27, 9:00 Morning worship. The Great Day Pt. 2
10:15 Sunday school for all ages.
~ Past communiques and sermons can be read and heard on our website: www.pilotknob.org and Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PilotKnobLutheran/
Sermons may be heard on KIOW 107.3 FM Sunday mornings at 7:00. Spread the word. If you would like to support this outreach with a contribution, it costs $55 each week.
