Truthlines • November 16, 2009

November 2009

Dear Friends,

My happiest reflections of Harvest Thanksgiving take me back to my teenage years and the farming communities of West Yorkshire, England. The celebrations that encompassed an entire weekend always took place right on the heels of the harvest. I have vivid recollections of small Methodist chapels filled with fresh produce arranged creatively at the front of the church. The Sunday services, which were pervaded by the aroma emanating from cabbages, turnips, corn, and all of their cousins, gave occasion for us to thank God for the faithfulness of His promises and the wonder of His provision. I can still hear the sound of children’s voices singing “we plow the fields and scatter the good seed on the land, but it is fed and watered by God’s almighty hand.” Then the refrain began: “All good gifts around us are sent from heaven above.”

In light of that, I was struck today by the way in which the Apostle Paul spoke to the people in Lystra about God in these terms: “He has shown kindness by giving you rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides you with plenty of food and fills your hearts with joy.” These verses help us in our endeavors to celebrate Thanksgiving properly and to use the occasion as another opportunity to tell others of God’s grace and goodness.

That, as you know, is what Truth For Life is all about. That is why you listen and partner with us to reach our increasingly confused and often saddened culture with the good news of great joy, which takes us directly into the Christmas season. But before we get there, there is much to be done, and under God, we will accomplish it through your faithful generosity. Our goal to receive $2.5 Million by December 31 is substantial but attainable, and I encourage you to pray for us as I continue to thank God for you.

May the joy of the Lord continue to be your strength,
Alistair