Thanksgiving is a recurring theme in Paul's letters. “Always and for everything” the Ephesians are to give “thanks in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ to God the Father” (Eph. 5:20). The Philippians are to avoid anxiety and make their prayer requests to God “with thanksgiving” (Phil. 4:6). The Colossians must “do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him” (Col. 3:17). The Thessalonians should “give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus” (1 Thess. 5:18).
        
        We honored these inspired exhortations on Sunday evening with a thanksgiving emphasis service. Hymns, prayers, and scripture readings were intermingled with messages presented by five men. Every participant did an outstanding job of leading the church in giving thanks. The short messages expressed gratitude for children, parents, country, the Bible, the church, and for Jesus Christ.

        “Why I'm Thankful for Meigs Avenue” was not on the program, but I would certainly have enjoyed making a presentation on that topic. My heart is full of thanks for this congregation. Listed below are my two main reasons:
        
        The Elders' Example. Peter tells elders to lead the church “not as domineering over those in your charge but being examples to the flock” (1 Pet. 5:3). Some elders seem to view their position merely as an honor. Thankfully, Hayward Blanton and Jerry Casey think of eldership as a work. They show the way instead of merely pointing to it. They study their Bibles, devote themselves to prayer, do the work of evangelists, visit the sick, and regularly stand before the assembly to encourage sound teaching and spiritually-healthy living. What a blessing!
        
        The Church's Love. Jesus said that “by this all men will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (John 13:35). In many congregations brotherly love is theoretical (“Do we love each other? Of course! The Bible requires it”). At Meigs Avenue, though, Christian love is real. The church's generosity, the excellent participation in fellowship activities, the warm expressions of affection, the evangelistic outreach programs, the willingness to drive considerable distances to attend worship services--all these things, and many others, point to the genuine love I'm so thankful for.