Sermon of the Week: Giving Thanks

Rev. Steven Simala Grant, pastor of Laurier Heights Baptist Church in Edmonton, Canada told this experience in his sermon entitled “Thanksgiving.”

“I picked Joanne up from work last Friday, and she noticed that Thomas (our 1 yr old) was laboring quite hard in his breathing. He’d had a cold all week, and we decided that this wheezing was bad enough that maybe we should take him to a doctor just to be on the safe side. After waiting a couple hours in a medicenter, we finally saw a doctor who told us to take him to Emergency - she diagnosed a viral infection in Thomas’ lungs and said we should get him to the hospital immediately. I don’t recall much of the trip or those first few minutes in the ER - the thoughts and worries and fears raced through my mind. I felt helpless and guilty and overwhelmed. I was managing alright until Joanne voiced our greatest fear to the doctor: “Is he going to be ok?” The doctor’s reply was quick and positive, but I know my heart stopped and time stood still for the brief moment between the question and assurance us that yes, he would be fine. They were able to treat him and get his oxygen stabilized, they sent us home, and he is doing better today.”

During this time of thanksgiving give thanks for all the blessings that you have. Remember the importance of family; remember the simple things that make life sweet. Remember the joy of sharing with loved ones and give thanks.

Pray for those who don’t have affordable health care and livable wages. Pray for those who are still suffering from Katrina, bombings, and war. Pray during this time of thanksgiving for those who have not. Remember that together, we can make a difference in the lives of others.

Posted by Rev. Jarvis Johnson on Wednesday, November 22, 2006

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