This week we observe our National Day of Thanksgiving, a tradition that formally traces its roots to President Abraham Lincoln's proclamation 159 years ago, yet reflects a biblical practice as old as the church itself. While we rightly recall the historical context of the American pilgrims, our focus is anchored in Deuteronomy 8:10: "And you shall eat and be full, and you shall bless the Lord your God for the good land he has given you." This passage serves as a divine call to gratitude for the ancient pilgrims of Israel, reminding us that being called to give thanks is the proper response after receiving God's blessings.
As we gather, we join both the historical and spiritual tradition of acknowledging the plenitude of God's blessings—not only the physical food and bounty we enjoy but the spiritual gifts received through Christ. This sermon is a reminder that the Lord has given us not only temporal blessings but the ultimate gift of salvation. Therefore, the giving of thanks is always a response to God's generous hand, whether in moments of great abundance or during hardship.
Ultimately, our observance this week is a powerful call to move beyond a singular National Day of Thanksgiving to a life of Thanksliving. May our praise for all His blessings become a perpetual attitude that colors our every day, acknowledging God's constant faithfulness in every aspect of our lives.
Preacher: Pastor Bill Engfehr
Order of service:
Readings:
- Psalm reading is from Psalm 67
- Old Testament reading is from Deuteronomy 8:1–10
- New Testament reading is from Philippians 4:6–20
- Holy Gospel is from Luke 17:11–19
Songs and Hymns:
- Come, Ye Thankful People, Come
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Text by Henry Alford
Tune by George J. Elvey
Public domain - Sing to the Lord of Harvest
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Text: John S. B. Monsell
Tune: Johann Steurlien
Text and tune: Public domain - We Praise You, O God
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Text: Julia B. Cory
Tune: Nederlandtsch Gedenckclanck, 1626
Text and tune: Ppublic domain
Recording:
- Audio:
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- Video:
- Watch on YouTube
Announcements:
- Wednesday, Nov 26:
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- Thanksgiving Eve Worship Service (Pastor Bill Engfehr): 6:30 PM to 7:30 PM
- Thursday, Nov 27:
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- AA Meeting: 6:30 PM
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Downstairs.
- Saturday, Nov 29:
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- St. James Advent Decorating: 9 AM
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Saturday, November 29th 9:00 AM
- Women’s Bible Study: 10 AM to 11:30 AM
- AA Meeting: 1:30 PM
- Community Service Opportunity: 5 PM to 8 PM
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Community Service Opportunity: St James is passing out free hot chocolate at the Glen Carbon Winter Market on Saturday, November 29th from 5-8 pm. If you are interested in helping, please let Jen Weber or Tina Enke know. The Winter Market is located at the village museum.
- Sunday, Nov 30:
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- Worship Service (Rev. Tony Boos): 9 AM to 10:15 AM
- Sunday School and Youth Confirmation: 10:30 AM to 11:45 AM
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Sanctuary.
- Adult Bible Study and Youth Confirmation: 10:45 AM to 11:45 AM
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Downstairs.
- Sunday, Dec 7:
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- Annual Congregational Voters' Meeting
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All Members – Mark your calendars for December 7th to attend and vote!
- Sunday, Dec 6:
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- Second Tuesday Women's Bible Study
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The Second Tuesday Women’s Bible Study
Next Date: December 6, 2026
- Advent/Christmas Schedule
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Holiday Worship Schedule Sunday, Nov. 30 – First Sunday in Advent 9:00 AM Wednesday, Dec 3 – Fellowship Dinner 6:30 PM Sunday, Dec. 7 – Second Sunday in Advent 9:00 AM Wednesday, Dec 10 – Midweek Advent 6:30 PM Sunday, Dec. 14 – Third Sunday in Advent 9:00 AM Wednesday, Dec 17 – Midweek Advent […]
- Do Muslims Want to Kill Non-Muslims? (Ep131)
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In the religious struggle between Christianity and Islam, is it correct that the faithful Muslim wants infidels, including Christians, to be dead? Or is this perspective a false narrative? Do different sects of Islam believe different things on this question? It’s a sensitive subject, and we’ll talk about it today. It’s our topic on this episode of Craving Answers, Craving God.
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