Thanksgiving is upon us! I’m so excited for this wonderful holiday that we have the opportunity to share with family and friends. What are you thankful for lately?
As excited as we might be, there are still many things that put a damper on our excitement. Each year we gather at the table with loved ones mindful of the stresses of life, losses we have incurred, injuries and frailties experienced from another trip around the sun. What makes it all worthwhile, however, and what gives us unending hope, is what is promised by our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
I am thankful most for Him this year! And here is why I am thankful for Him. These are the seven “I am” statements from Jesus found in Scripture:
1. “I am the Bread of Life.” (John 6:35, 48, 51.) Jesus is the greatest nourishment for our souls in this world and beyond.
2. “I am the Light of the World.” (John 8:12; 9:5.) Jesus is the One Who can light the path for us in this world even in the darkest moments we could ever imagine.
3. “I am the Gate of the Sheepfold.” (John 10:7, 9.) Jesus shows us an open door of acceptance into eternity where we are considered His precious sheep in His incredibly valuable flock.
4. “I am the Good Shepherd.” (John 10:11, 14.) Jesus feeds and guards His flock and is with us every moment taking care of us always.
5. “I am the Resurrection and the Life.” (John 11:25.) Jesus promises He has the power over death. If we ever experience death it is merely a temporary sleep until a great resurrection that happens because of His unstoppable power.
6. “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life.” (John 14:6.) Jesus is the right way. Jesus is everything that is true. Jesus helps us feel fully alive now and for eternity. He brings a fullness to our lives!
7. “I am the True Vine.” (John 15:1.) Jesus is our connection to life sustaining power forever and ever more which produces eternal fruit in the lives of all who connected to Him.
With all Jesus has promised to be for us now and forever, we have every reason to give exuberant thanks, always! He makes everything worthwhile no matter what difficulties we face each year.
“But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57.)
Happy Thanksgiving beloved church family! Jesus, the great “I Am” can help us truly say, “I am thankful.”
- Pastor Michael