Each Sunday, I go up to the pulpit while the congregation greets one another before the sermon. I get my notes set and my Bible turned to the opening passage of my lesson. I then usually look out at our church family, and this is what see.
I see couples trying to get their young children settled for worship. It’s not easy bringing a small child to worship but there is a blessing in the struggle and perseverance. I’m thankful for all of our young families at Fairlane.
I see teenagers participating in worship with their families. I’m thankful that they are with us. It’s not easy being a teen in today’s culture with the pressure from social media and their peers. I’m thankful our teens are worshipping and following the Father.
I see young singles at Fairlane who are following Jesus each day. It’s not easy being a young single in a church family. You are often overlooked or pressured to start dating and find the “right one”. I’m thankful our singles are with us and contributing to the ministry at Fairlane.
I see men and women whose spouses have passed and gone to be with the Father. They come faithfully each Sunday while still feeling the absence of their spouse. It’s a tough endeavor but their love for God and their church family gives them the strength to move forward. I’m thankful for them and the legacy of their spouses.
I see middle aged couples navigating empty nests, grown children and the approaching reality of retirement and a change in the season of life. This is an interesting and challenging time of life. I’m thankful for them and look forward to seeing how they engage this new season.
I see children who love to hear stories from God’s word and are filled with seemingly unlimited energy. Their exuberance and busyness give energy to our church and their innocence reminds us of how our hearts should be before God. We have some fantastic kids at Fairlane and I’m thankful for all of them.
I see “senior saints” who are navigating the rigors and frailties of aging. They battle aches and pains, the forgetfulness of an older age, and the fast-paced change of today’s society. I know some Sundays that it is difficult for them to attend due to their physical struggles, but they come anyways. Their faith and commitment are inspiring, and I am thankful for them.
I see a church family who is imperfect. We struggle with sins like others do. Sometimes, we aren’t as kind or nice as we should be. We get tired, impatient and frazzled. But we love God. We seek His presence and lordship in our lives. We love our neighbors and want our community to experience the love, kindness and grace of our Savior. We aren’t perfect but God is doing a great work within us.
I see my church family. I am thankful for all of you.
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