Thankfulness should be a part of everyday life, but so often we take all that we have for granted. We live our lives without taking time to stop and reflect and so as we share this article, I would like us to take time to contemplate.

Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! Let the redeemed of the Lord say so, whom he has redeemed from trouble and gathered in from the lands, from the east and from the west, from the north and from the south.”

Psalm 107:1-3

The Bible is filled with instructions telling us that we should give thanks to God, with many going on to list motives as to why we should thank God, such as “His love endures forever” (Psalm 136:3), “He is good” (Psalm 118:29), and “His mercy is everlasting” (Psalm 100:5). Blessing and worship are mutually significant, and we cannot praise and worship God while neglecting to be thankful. 

During Advent we prepare for Christmas, when we remember that God sent the greatest gift of all to us in the form of himself incarnate – God wrapped in human skin in the form of Jesus. We give and receive presents to mark all that God gives to us. The big question is, however, in the busyness of Christmas do we stop and give thanks?

In the Beatles song “In My Life” the lyrics say, “There are places I’ll remember, all my life though some have changed. Some forever, not for better, some have gone and some remain.”

In this, our 140^th anniversary session, we are thankful to not only our founders, but also to the thousands of people who have selflessly given of themselves through volunteering. Lives have been changed for the better and God’s kingdom here on earth has grown through their willingness to share their gifts and time. 

Take time today to give thanks – to those who help you, those who care for you, for those who have given themselves for you and most of all to the one who will always be there regardless. Blessed be God forever!

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Rev Nic is married to Neil (also a BB leader) and the couple have two boys. She became involved in The Boys’ Brigade around 15 years ago when she supported her husband’s Company and eventually became a leader herself. She is passionate about sharing faith and currently sits on the BB’s Christian Faith Group as well as being Battalion Chaplain and joint President of Liverpool & District Battalion. Nic is a Methodist Minister based in Cheshire East where she looks after five Churches. When not working or volunteering, Nic enjoys spending time with family and friends, sewing, reading, baking and a visit to Alton Towers!