November 19, 2022

Dear Road Church Friends,

Thanksgiving week brings to mind the well known story of the Mayflower Pilgrims and the first harvest in their new land that we now call the First Thanksgiving. Even though it had been a difficult year,—half their company had died of disease,—they were a hard working, thankful people. The governor of Plymouth Plantation wrote, Our harvest being gotten in, we sent four men on fowling, that so we might rejoice together after we had gathered the fruit of our labors. And although it be not always so plentiful as it was at this time with us, yet by the goodness of God we are far from being in need of anything.

These earliest settlers and all their fellow Puritans who followed them to New England, were possessed by a faith in God that gave them an indomitable spirit of gratitude in all circumstances. This is the secret of contentment of which the Apostle Paul wrote, I have experienced times of need and times of abundance. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of contentment, whether I go satisfied or hungry, have plenty or nothing. I am able to do all things through the one who strengthens me.

For many reasons the New England Puritans are regarded as America’s First Founding Fathers. We are beneficiaries of the many gifts that are their lasting legacy to our country. Gather with us Sunday when the message will be, “The Gifts of the Puritans.” 

SCRIPTURE:  1 Thessalonians 5:16-18    SERMON : The Gifts of the Puritans

“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

THESE ARE THE GIFTS I ASK

These are the gifts I ask of Thee Spirit serene:

Strength for the daily task,

Courage to face the road,

Good cheer to help me bear the traveler’s load,

And, for the hours of rest that come between,

An inward joy of all things heard and seen.

by Henry van Dyke

O Lord, and Heavenly Father, you have given so much to us, we pray for one more thing,—a thankful heart,—not thankful when life pleases us, but thankful in every circumstance. May we have such a heart that its every beat sings your praise. Amen.

Blessings to all,

Pastor Norm

This service on YouTube: https://youtu.be/JmDYcsXdrKA