Thanks

Philippians 1:3-5 “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now.”

Giving thanks is part of our lives. For many it is given before meals each day, written in expressions of cards, shown through acts of kindness and gifts, and said to many when simply cared for or helped in time of need. Being thankful is an act of spiritual worship. Saying “thanks” recognizes and yields to God’s blessings on our lives for daily breathe, salvation through Christ alone, health, wisdom, and provisions are just a few expressions.

Today, I would like to say “Thanks.!” Thanks to God for providing a group of children and families to walk alongside of during this football/cheer season. God has provided new relationships through football / cheerleading experiences for many. Thanks to the many coaches and volunteers who gave a minimum of two days a week to invest in children and teach sport and God’s plan for their lives. Thanks for the parents who committed their time each week as part of investing in their kids.

One special thanks I give today is to Ernie Leistner, Upward Football Director for the past six seasons. Ernie will complete his time of service next weekend and I invite you to celebrate his service to Upward Sports. Ernie’s service is in response to his life being impacted through Upward Sports and changed because of Christ. As you see Ernie at the directors table, walking the fields, out at practice next week, and cheering on the bowl games next weekend, offer him a word of thanks.

Thanks is a powerful word. It’s the greatest expression to acknowledge God’s goodness towards us and the gifts of others.