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| ps from ps”Every time I think of you, I thank my God.” – Paul, to the church of the Philippians. But do we? Because I know that I can very easily slip up on showing thankfulness to and for the many things that God has placed into my life, I thought there also my be a chance that you might do that as well. So, for the next few weeks, we’re going to dwell in thankfulness for just a few of the many things that God has blessed us with and I bet that you have/are blessed by the same things! Being thankful physically rewires the brain to lower stress hormones like cortisol, improves sleep, and boosts feel-good neurotransmitters (dopamine/serotonin), leading to higher happiness and lower anxiety. Spiritually, it fosters peace, deepens connections with others, and helps individuals find meaning by focusing on positive outcomes rather than just hardships. So let’s get after it! Today, I remember those that work for freedom and I thank God for them. As we moved through Memorial Day weekend, hopefully you had a chance to remember those that died that served our country. At St. Paul’s, it’s always powerful to invite those who served, and are still with us, to stand and receive our thanks for their service time. Jesus said in John’s gospel: “I am the good shepherd. The good shepherd lays down his life for the sheep.” That is sacrifice and eternal love shared. Today, I invite you to draw outward and onward that spirit of thankfulness for those who did and continue to work for freedom, across the globe and around the corner. Can we lengthen out our thankfulness from one day or one weekend into a longer period of thanks? Can we move beyond military thanks to thanks for local folks who govern? Neighbors and friends that teach peace and compassion in our schools? Law enforcement that operate with grace and healthy direction? Mental health professionals that work with clients to bring personal freedom from anxiety and trauma? All who work to bring freedom to others. There are very good shepherds all around. May we lengthen out and widen our search who those who work for freedom, and thank God for them. Amen. Still in One Peace, PS |
May 27, 2026
