Pastor Danny’s message
Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.
(Philippians 4:4-6)
This is actually one of my favorite seasons of the year… Christmas is all about gifts, but Thanksgiving is about so much more. For those of you who know my story what has happened in this last year I thank God everyday! I hit a very low point in my life last year and it took a toll on me. I am thankful to God that I am ABLE to see the moments of gratitude and celebrate today. I thank God that my mindset is different than what it was last year. This is what we call spiritual growth. I will admit anxiety still happens, but learning how to control and deal with it has been a lesson in 2026.
Thanksgiving is one of those holidays that is not focused on gifts or baskets, but on the simple sense of gratitude. So Paul reminds us three steps: 1) Rejoice always. 2) Pray in all circumstances. 3) Do not be anxious. Not sure about you, but I have my moments of anxiety where I feel like I can be doing more. At the end of the day I have two hands and two feet and at times I have to remind myself that God is in control. What I have learned is that everytime I surrender to God - God takes His moment- God prevails. So in your anxiety give God your convictions.
I rejoice in the Laity Sunday we recently celebrated watching laity step into action through song and through the message. Anyone who knows me know how much I love this church and will do everything in my power to be present for others. I rejoice in being able to do that! Rejoice in the Lord always- celebrate those good moments! Celebrate times when people help you to smile!
I pray consistently for members and the surrounding community of Passaic. While I would love to stretch our arms wider, I acknowledge ministries like Dignity House and Salvation Army. Our Lay Leader Tony Catembung has initiated a call to action and prayer. As of October 7th we have committed to meeting friends of Passaic in the park. We met two individuals this week and next week intend to offer prayer. Not only are we meant to pray, but we are also called to share in action like being present and sharing our understanding and Word with others.
As you celebrate this Thanksgiving- do not stress, be patient with your guests, make sure to offer prayer in all circumstances. Our God is a good and faithful God and has made sure to be present in all circumstances! Let us not forget that as we move into this season. -Pastor Danny
