by Henry Knapp
“I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” – St. Paul to the Ephesians
I’m a big Christmas fan—I love the songs, the snow, the smells, the Hallmark movies. Unfortunately, I live with Mrs. Humbug. Actually, not true—Kelly likes Christmas, but LOVES Thanksgiving. So, as Thanksgiving has just passed, Advent is upon us, and Christmas is coming, I want to focus on gratitude, thanksgiving for all that our Lord has done.
Gratitude: the sense of gratefulness and thanksgiving. Let me begin with a very specific recognition of Doug and his ministry. Looking back, I am filled with gratitude about the clear call the Lord gave us to come to Hebron almost three years ago. I had always heard of Doug and his ministry in Pittsburgh, and am blessed to have been able to witness Doug and Barb’s ministry firsthand. I am grateful for their Christ-centered focus, and their work of building and sustaining this wonderful church. From gratitude to prayer—may our God richly bless them in their new fields of service.
Gratitude: expressions of thankfulness. Secondly, during this time of transition, upheaval, change, and uncertainty, I am grateful for the elders and staff of Hebron. We have experienced many highs and lows together recently—staffing adjustments, COVID concerns, redirected emphases, and Sunday morning changes—and through it all the leadership at the church has sought to be faithful, thoughtful, and prayerful. What more could we be grateful for, than that God has led this church to lean on men and women who are committed passionately to Him? From gratitude to prayer—may we continue to experience God’s work in our midst.
Gratitude: the awareness of Christ-in-all. Finally, as Christmas approaches, I thank my Lord and Savior for allowing me to serve in a congregation such as this. I am thankful that you have responded to the call to adjust our worship times, attend Sunday morning classes, continue to prioritize the Word, each other, and committed service, as well as “field adjust” with me as we long to see what God has for us into the future. Thank you for worshipping, growing, and serving together! From gratitude to prayer—may we continue to be “to the praise of His glory!”
Kelly and I are praying for you and wish you all a VERY Merry Christmas! In Christ’s love, Henry
