Now is the time we culturally set aside to reflect gratitude for life and what we have. Thanksgiving Day, in my opinion, is actually one of the more meaningful moments still existing in the shared consciousness of our nation. In this time, we actually take time out from work and normal routines to simply celebrate …
Looking Back at 2020 with Gratitude
The end of the calendar year provides a good opportunity for us look back at the previous year and to look forward at the coming year. Oftentimes, we try to set New Year’s resolutions. I am not against the practice but much research shows that the majority of New Year’s resolutions, about 75%, are never …
Looking Back and Stepping Forward: a new year’s message
This past weekend at Eastbrook, I preached a message, "Looking Back and Stepping Forward," which was a stand-alone message for the new year. I shared some practices - looking back at the past year and stepping forward into the new year - that have helped me most over the years to close out one …
Continue reading "Looking Back and Stepping Forward: a new year’s message"
Praying with Paul: Ephesians 1 [30 Days of Prayer]
“For this reason, ever since I heard about your faith in the Lord Jesus and your love for all God’s people, I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” (Ephesians 1:15-16) There are two exemplary prayers of Paul in the letter known as Ephesians. The first prayer arises in 1:15-23 …
Continue reading "Praying with Paul: Ephesians 1 [30 Days of Prayer]"
Give Thanks to the Lord
One of my favorite portions of Scripture is Psalm 136. The call and response of the musical poetry of this psalm is both refreshingly focused and hypnotically reflective. On this Thanksgiving Day, when we focus as a nation on things we are grateful for, join me in giving thanks to the Lord, for He is …
Matthew Erickson 