“Gratitude gives birth to joy because gratitude teaches us to receive life as a gift in the moment we’re in.”
Tish Harrison Warren, Prayer in the Night
I give thanks this week for the gift of this particular moment. I began this day with a zoom call with my colleague, Johannah Myers who lives 3000 miles away from me. I learned of the Get Started training she led this weekend with the Western North Carolina United Methodist Conference. Following a sample Messy Church at their annual conference, several of the ten churches in attendance had already started their Messy Church.
I give thanks for the connections between Messy Churches in our network. Learning what is happening throughout the country through our Messy Church of the Month is one way we connect with one another. We also connect through our Team Leaders Facebook group where people share ideas and ask questions.
I give thanks for the opportunity to spend a few days this week at my beloved Oregon coast. In addition to walking along the beach, I will spend time reflecting on this past year of Messy Church ministry outlining our Year End Report.
I give thanks that on Thanksgiving day, I will gather with family eating a meal at my Mother-in-law’s assisted living facility. Later, I will spend time on my brother’s farm. I will enjoy food and family but will not need to cook this year!
How are you giving thanks this week? May your gratitude give birth to joy today and the days to come.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Roberta