I want to be someone who says, “thank you,” more. I’m grateful for so much in my life but I don’t think I really make enough time to say, “thank you.” It’s not that I don’t say it, but when I step back and consider all the blessings that fill my life, I know there’s no way I could possibly have expressed an appropriate amount of thankfulness in response.
I’m thankful for my family who continue to be my primary support system. Their love assures me in so many ways. I’m thankful for this church, which has called me to be in ministry together, doing God’s work in the world. And I’m thankful to God, who won’t let me sit still for too long, who keeps my eyes focused out there while still calling me in here to be fed.
Over the past 60 years this church has also had much to be thankful for. From the earliest efforts of Pastor Bob Bragstad and Parish Worker Betty Aspeson, this congregation has always expressed deep gratitude for its clergy and staff. For the countless partners in ministry this church has partnered with over the years, whether close to home or around the world, this church has given its thanks. And for all the volunteers over the years who have made ministry possible as they’ve planned, organized, prepared, cleaned, mowed, shoveled, sewed, rehearsed, counted, re-organized, deliberated, cooked, sung, taught, shared, visited, prayed, re-organized again, and in so many other ways, this congregation has offered its thanks.
As we continue celebrating our six decades of ministry, let’s first remember to be thankful. For all that God has done and for all that God continues to do through the people that call themselves Prince of Peace Lutheran Church. And thanks be to God that we get to continue in this life together: claimed, gathered and sent out again to build the church and love the world.