November Welcome: A Season of Gratitude

by Karyn Grenz

A copy of this photo, Grace by Enstrom Studios, hung on my grandparent’s kitchen wall. (Did you know it’s the Minnesota state photograph?) As a child, I used to stare at it during long family dinners. Over the years, it became a welcomed sight. I imagined all that this man had been through, yet was grateful for his meager bread and broth, going to the Lord in prayer for all he had. Although the original photograph had a dictionary on the table, I love the amendment of the Bible being a solid and constant perch for this thankful man. What a splendid place to be – grateful for His abundance, no matter the circumstances and thankful for the Word given to us.

Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18.

This month, three ladies share about gratitude in multiform; whether for the bodies of service and worship at Calvary (Rachel Bushre), for our spouse (Jill Pearson), or for the Holy Spirit comforting us in dreams (AnaMarie Moen) we find gratitude deepens our faith, builds community and strengthens relationships. In addition, we meet Deb August and Kristy Norman in Faces of Calvary. Jerri Dee Flagge was ever grateful for her daughter making this month’s Cooks of Calvary recipe when she was pregnant and very ill. Jenni Zeuli shares a wonderful book review on Faithfully Different.

We also celebrate our veterans this November. Join in thanking the many men and women who have served in the United States military and honor them for their patriotism and willing contributions. Do you know happen to know another female veteran? Let us know in the comments on this article or on our Facebook page. We’d love to honor them! One veteran amongst us women is Sadie Flatt. She writes this month on how gratitude through her service with the United States Marine Corps ultimately helped to shape her faith.

Finally, enjoy Ben Rector’s imaginative music video, reminding us to slow down, be grateful and enjoy this Thanksgiving along with Melissa Meyers’ calendar with thankful verses for each day of the month.

Take time to thank our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ around your dinner table this month!