Happy Thanksgiving everyone! Did you know the Thanksgiving holiday was established by President Abraham Lincoln on October 3, 1863, and he designated it to be on the last Thursday of November? Have you ever thought about how giving thanks parallels praise? Both are exalting God for His faithfulness and provision. When we give thanks and praise Him we demonstrate faith and trust, which releases His power in our lives. Blessings are anything that God gives us that are undeserved, like our next breath. Naming your blessings will bring you great joy!
I’m thankful for changed hearts and lives that are radically different because of Jesus Christ. I’m thankful for the many who lead Bible studies and prayer groups with fellow inmates. God is using them to sow seeds to the indifferent and yet seekers of Him. One man was raised Amish in Nebraska, ran away as a teenager, lived in foster care, and began using meth. He explored many different kinds of religions, but his heart was empty. I explained that Jesus Christ was the only God/Man that could pay our sin debt. It would take a blood sacrifice and a Man who was sinless. Jesus was both as He freely offered Himself up to die on Calvary’s cross. This man was tired of his years-long addiction and wrecked relationships with his loved ones.
I said Christianity is a relationship not a religion, and asked if he wanted to give his life to Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of his sins. He said yes, received the Lord Jesus, and believed. What a holy moment to watch God open his heart to experience God’s love and grace. That’s what your prayers do. They prepare the way for brokenness, repentance, and confession of faith.
Giving thanks should be spontaneous, but some struggle to be grateful for even one item. This attitude is so prevalent in our society today. Hearts have become hard and indifferent as we move towards being a godless nation. It’s even more urgent to get the life-changing message of the gospel to a lost and dying population like those in the Polk County Jail. I am truly grateful for your powerful and effective prayers. Their impact is immeasurable! The Board and I want to say thanks for all of your financial gifts as well that allow this ministry to flourish, and help accomplish what God has called us to do. What a great eternal investment you have made in lives which will one day gain eternal rewards. Amen!
