Thanksgiving 2017: May your Misgivings become Thanksgivings

Refuge, this year has been quite eventful. This Thursday is traditionally a day of recounting what we have to be thankful for, and Refuge, we have a lot. 

I write this blog sitting amongst boxes in our new building. What an amazing blessing the Lord has given us! A space to grow and become our home, knowing of course in a deeper way, the church is not a place but a people.

Lord, thank you for reaffirming in our hearts the bond we have as believers in the family of God and entrusting to us a central location to be a light to this city. 

Praise the Lord!
Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,
for his steadfast love endures forever!
Who can utter the mighty deeds of the Lord,
or declare all his praise? (Psalm 106:1-2)

Refuge, we have been through tragedy with our city as well. Even in this, we have much to be thankful for. While fires may have burned down buildings they also revealed what cannot be burned away, namely the charity that comes from the Lord. We have seen churches and Christians find unity in the midst of collective suffering. The needs of many have been met by hearts of generosity. In reflection, though much may have been lost, there was much found in the fires that burned.

Oh, Lord, thank you for your protection and provision in the face of ominous disaster. Thank you that so many, because of your provision for them, are now able to mirror the words of Job —“I know that you can do all things, and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted.” We give thanks that your grace and mercy endures and the goodness of your people by your grace has found expression in giving. 

It is truly difficult for some of us to feel this kind of kind of thankfulness because of loss or pain. This season we will pray for you the prayer that was spoken by the missionary Jim Elliot many years ago:

"I pray for you, that all your misgivings will be melted to thanksgivings."

May our mighty God continue to uplift, protect, provide for, and bless the body at Refuge CF. 

Happy Thanksgiving!

- Nicolai