It’s always fun to re-live the good memories you’ve made with friends and last Saturday evening was definitely one of those special times for Carolyn and me. Over dinner, with a couple that we worked with in our earliest days of ministry (like 45 years ago), we laughed as we re-told the stories we tend to tell whenever we’re together, got caught up on “what’s new” and shared some of our plans and hopes for the year ahead.
As enjoyable as this was, when they asked about the ministry of Pathfinders, an extra burst of energy filled my being and even though I’m careful with what I share (for confidential reasons), I was reminded once again of just how thankful I am for the ministry that God has invited and enabled me to lead over the past two years.
I’m thankful for the journey I’ve been on with a group of men that meet every Tuesday morning to study the Bible. Beyond simply knowing what it says, it’s a study that always invites us to work through how we can apply what we’re learning into our daily lives – at home, work and play.
I’m thankful for the noon hour studies where friends have gathered with honest questions and a willingness to gain a greater understanding of what the Christian faith is all about.
I’m thankful for the businessmen I regularly meet with who share a common desire to grow their leadership skills, learn from one another and in all of this, lead in a way that honours God.
I’m thankful for the interest that a good number of the 400 guys who are part of the hockey league as I play in have shown in our “Chapel” program.
I’m thankful for the many one-on-one conversations I’ve had with good people who are genuinely wrestling with faith issues as well as those who want to do life God’s way but admittedly struggle to succeed without a regular dose of encouragement, direction or perhaps even, an accountability partner.
I’m thankful for those who have come to faith in Christ and for the way in which some have moved from a position of simply believing to active ministry service.
I’m thankful for friends who have chosen to stand with me in this ministry through their prayers and as God would lead, through their financial support.
Everyone has a story and for many, their current story includes challenges that are bigger than they can handle on their own – relational conflict, health issues, financial pressure, confusion, doubts, loss of a loved one and the list goes on. Being available to come alongside others, to hear their story and then as opportunities are given, to share God’s story is nothing short of wonderful. And I couldn’t do this without friends like you.
Yes, few things are more enjoyable than re-living the good memories we’ve made with others and as you celebrate with friends and family this Christmas season, may the memories you make fill you with a fresh sense of joy as you remember the one who came, that we might know… the one who gave, that we might receive.
Thanking God again today for the friendship we share and the part we get to play in helping create hope-filled, memory making stories for others.
Wishing you and yours, a wonderful Christmas and His very best in the year ahead,
