Giving thanks

by Jon Konnerup

Thanksgiving, as it relates to world missions, brings to mind the heartfelt words I hear repeatedly as I travel around the world, “Thank you for sending the missionaries who brought the Gospel of Jesus Christ. If the missionary had not come, I most likely would not have heard the Way, the Truth, and the Life — thank you!”

Thanksgiving is an opportunity to offer a public acknowledgement of the goodness of God. He has blessed us with wonderful churches that desire to see the Gospel spread throughout our country and around the world. We thank God for His goodness and blessings upon the BBFI.

With the many blessings from God come responsibilities. Just as our tables are full of food during the Thanksgiving holidays, our hearts are filled with the fullness of the Gospel. Many around the world hunger and thirst spiritually. We have Jesus Christ, the one who will satisfy their deepest need, lift their burdens, and forgive their sins! We thank God for His Son — the savior of the world.

Let us express our gratitude as we enter this time of year by thanking God for the Great Commission — the privilege to be part of God’s plan given to the church. Thank God for those who pray for and give to missions and for those who go as missionaries. Thank God for the churches working together to send and support.

While the Thanksgiving holiday may not be celebrated around the world, we can always be thankful to God for the gift of salvation — anytime and anywhere!