Date Posted: 2024-11-25 04:21:17 | Video Duration: 01:11:31
At Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church, the air is filled with a spirit of gratitude and community. The sermon this Sunday focused on finding thankfulness amidst life’s uncertainties, drawing inspiration from scripture and the vibrant community gathered in worship.
Trusting God as Our Portion
The sermon opened with a reflection on Psalm 16, where the psalmist declares, “Lord, you alone are my portion and my cup” (Psalm 16:5). This scripture set the tone for understanding how God’s presence and promises are our true inheritance. The pastor shared, “God is our chosen portion. If that is so, if we believe that, then we have nothing to worry about.”
The message emphasized the idea of seeing God as our ultimate source of security and joy. This notion was beautifully illustrated through an engaging children’s sermon, where kids were asked to imagine their ideal slice of cake, paralleling how we should appreciate the portion God gives us without comparison to others.
Letting Go of Worry
In the gospel reading from Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus urges His followers not to worry about their lives, assuring them of God’s provision. “Look at the birds of the air,” Jesus says, “they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they?” (Matthew 6:26). The pastor reminded the congregation that worrying does not add a single hour to our lives and encouraged them to focus on the faithfulness of God.
Relatable anecdotes from the pastor’s childhood illustrated how worrying about getting a fair share often distracted him from enjoying life. He noted that worrying is fruitless and suggested shifting energy towards gratitude and acceptance of God’s timing and ways.
The Practice of Gratitude
The church is currently in a season of gratitude, inviting members to engage in eight weeks of intentional thankfulness. Gratitude journals are available for both adults and children, encouraging the community to reflect on the many ways God provides. The pastor encouraged everyone to participate, promising that this practice would transform their perspectives and lives.
To support this theme, the pastor shared a heartwarming story about Cheryl and Ernie Johnson, who found joy in giving away their late son’s cherished collection of key fobs to a local child with a similar passion. This act of generosity served as a reminder of how giving can be a powerful expression of gratitude and love.
Walking the Way of Thankfulness
The pastor offered practical advice on how to cultivate thankfulness: by not worrying, recalling happy memories, serving others, and being gentle with oneself. He encouraged the congregation to step back and view the broader landscape of God’s faithfulness throughout their lives.
As the service concluded, the community was invited to reflect on the gifts they have received and how they might share them with the world. The pastor urged everyone to consider how they have experienced God’s grace and love and to let those experiences guide their actions in their circles of influence.
Preston Hollow Presbyterian Church continues to be a beacon of hope and gratitude, reminding its members that even in the face of life’s challenges, there is always something to be thankful for.
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