Expressions of gratitude

Tim Campbell Executive Director

Thanksgiving is my favorite season of the year. While I have cause for great thanksgiving all through the year, it is during this season that I focus my attention on the big picture of God's faithfulness to work through all of life's circumstances for my good.

I Thessalonians 5:18 says: "Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus." It isn't always easy to "give thanks" in the midst of difficult circumstances. We can't always see how something good can come out of difficulties. But looking back over my life, I can see how He is bringing all the pieces of the puzzle together. As the picture takes shape, I see that without the shadowy, dark pieces, the picture would be incomplete.

It all starts at the foot of the cross. It is there that we see how freely and unselfishly He gave of Himself so that we could receive of His forgiveness and acceptance. Our natural response to His gift is an overwhelming sense of gratitude. It is this gratitude that motivates us to extend His life-giving message to the hurting men, women and children who come through our doors.

In this issue you will find "Stories of Gratitude," glimpses into the lives of people who have found forgiveness and the grace to start a new life in Him. As they have opened up their lives to Him, He has brought release and healing from the things that have caused so much pain and trouble in their lives.

As you read these stories, consider them to be a note of personal thanks to you for supporting this ministry with your prayers, finances or time. As our ministry to women expands to meet the growing need, we seek more people to partner with us in this vital ministry.

"But just as you excel in everything- in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us -see that you also excel in this grace of giving....For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor, so that you through His poverty might become rich." (2 Corinthians 8: 7 and 9, NIV).

May this Thanksgiving be a blessed time for you and your family as you reflect on all he has done for you.