Gratitude
by Sidney G. Grant
F
OLLOWING HIS HEART-WARMING conversion, John Wesley, the great nineteenth century revivalist and founder of Methodism, realized the haunting reality of a needy world. With passion he purposed to do something about it! He was rejected from sharing his new faith in his church, so His father's tomb became his platform to proclaim it As his heart was set ablaze with pure love for Christ and for lost men around the world, these famous historic mission words were uttered: "The world is my parish."
When the heart of a new believer is set free from the pollution of sin by the conquering power of the Savior, Christ empowers and commissions him/her with His authority to become a world changer.
"Man overboard!" The words rang out. But it became obvious to the captain of the ocean liner that all hope to rescue the man overboard in the dark and stormy night was lost, so he declared to cease all attempts. As the man struggled to keep afloat, he was engulfed by the roaring waves and disappeared, A sea mate standing by, disregarding the odds, launched into the stormy sea in search of his drowning friend. Suddenly with all eyes riveted on the ocean waves, the second man overboard resurfaced clutching his friend in one arm while trying to stay afloat with the other. When the captain observed this
heroic attempt, he once again gave rescue orders. This time the attempt was successful and both men were safely brought to the ship's deck. While the crew revived the nearly drowned man, the exhausted rescuer observed from nearby.
As the man regained consciousness, his first words were, "Where is my rescuer?" He was directed to the man, and though exhausted, he crawled to his rescuer and said, "Thank you! Whatever you would have me do, just name it. I am your humble servant as long as you need me." He was rescued, and out of deep gratitude, he immediately made himself available to the service of his rescuer.
Each of us has much to be thankful for this Thanksgiving season. Just as Abraham Lincoln prolifically proclaimed the Thanksgiving message acknowledging the gifts of God, our thoughts should be no less.
As you celebrate the season, would you give thanks to your Savior and Rescuer and serve Him by responding to the call of those who are drowning in sin and desperation?
You can do so by praying, going, and giving. As you prayerfully consider a generous gift, please use the enclosed envelope and send your gift today. The call has gone out, "Man overboard!" Out of gratitude to our great Savior, let us respond today.
God bless you, and have a Happy Thanksgiving!
