As we head into November, let’s prepare ourselves to have a heart of gratitude when we come together for Thanksgiving. This third week’s reflection reminds us why we can always give thanks, even into eternity:

IN WORD – We know what will last. The prophecy of Isaiah—and of many others—makes it clear. The Kingdom of God, permanently anchored in eternity and brilliantly lit by His radiance, will never fade away. Anyone who wants to leave a legacy in this world must know that. Anyone who leaves a legacy not based on that truth is passing down a worthless inheritance.
Imagine being in a position to make only one large investment but having two options. The first option is to invest in real estate on a small, sandy island that changes shape every few years from the effects of the wind and the waves. The other is to invest in a massive tract of fruitful land in a fertile valley. Which would yield real dividends? Which would you choose?
That’s the choice Scripture sets before us. Nothing will be able to endure the fire and the whirlwind God sends on this earth at the end of the age. Nothing, that is, except the plans and purposes His Spirit breathes into His people. The new heavens and new earth, created incorruptible, will have no unworthy elements left after the refining process. It will be pure and permanent, and no fire can destroy or reshape it. This new earth will bear luscious, life-giving fruit for eternity. And the old one will melt in the searing heat of judgment. When you think today about where to invest your time, energy, and resources—both material and spiritual—you will have to make choices between the transient and the eternal. And if you have any sanity at all, you will choose to leave a legacy that lasts.
IN DEED – As you give thanks, let your heart be filled and overflowing with thoughts of the Kingdom that lasts. Anchor your soul in eternity, and let the investments brokered by your choices flow from the treasury of God’s Kingdom. Make sure you leave a legacy that endures. “Thanksgiving is the end of all human conduct, whether observed in words or works”. —J.B. Lightfoot (in “Worship the King,” by Chris Tiegreen)

For many, a grateful heart comes and goes based on how God answers our prayers. When it’s our way, we give thanks. When God answers differently, especially if He decides to challenge us, we complain. But such a heart is self-centered and often leads to decreased faith.
If we want a faith-building, persevering heart of gratitude, we need to step back and consider that life itself is God’s gift of love. More than that, we are blessed with eternal life through the sacrifice of Jesus. With this perspective, we will always have a thankful heart, well into eternity.
Are you in need of a constant, joyful perspective on life that results in daily praise? Take time to read the letter to the Philippians this week. Ask the Holy Spirit to grant you a joyful heart that can weather every day’s circumstances. You will then find that what Paul proclaims in chapter 4 will be your praise as well. Have a blessed week! – from Taipei, Pastor Sam