Happy Thanksgiving
This is my favorite article of the year to write because I get to pause and consider how grateful I am for the past year at Deermeadows. Try doing the same. You’ll discover it feels impossible to whittle down. Here are the Top 3 reasons I’m giving thanks today for life with Deermeadows...
1. Your Unprecedented Service
While we cannot all gather, God has used the church campus, your generosity, and the energy of our members to explosively grow ministries like the “Food Pantry.” That’s in quotes because pantries are typically smaller rooms – closets, even. The “Food Pantry” has been launched into the stratosphere...
As people in Jacksonville lost their jobs you stepped up to feed them. The monthly Food Distribution efforts taking place at Deermeadows routinely serve over 1,000 people on Saturdays (those events are once-a-month). Hundreds visit during the week when we’re open for a few hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. You’ve rallied, volunteered, prayed, given money and time all to bless the people in the shadow of our steeple.
You’re doing it again right now with the Christmas Shoe Boxes and the “Angel Tree.” Keep up this good work for the priceless name of Jesus.
2. Church Staff (every, single one of them!)
It’s hard to overstate the incredible work of those employed who serve you at Deermeadows. This year of unprecedented difficulty has brought out the best in them.
Since the pandemic started, it seems as soon as plans get nailed down, they have to be changed. Believe me, this happens over and over and over again. Because of their love for Jesus and you, Deermeadows’ staff has pivoted, collaborated, re-created and accomplished amazing ministry designed to draw others close together and close to Christ. Think about all the little things the pandemic stole from us. Now reflect on all your church staff has done to give hope and joy and love and life to our faith community.
Church – I know you know it but I’ve gotta say it – you are blessed to have folks like these who are willing to sacrifice so much because they love you!
3. Our Future
These tumultuous times have tested us. We all have our bad days, but Deermeadows: these trials are highlighting God’s best in you!
Your faithfulness in giving has kept the church strong. Your perseverance in praying is accomplishing work that could have never been done without the prayers. Your kind words and gentle temperaments are a witness for Christ to a world that seems to be spiraling for lack of self-control.
These days have only made your light for Jesus shine brighter. The days ahead will continue to challenge us. Bring it on! It’s bringing out the best in you, and the best in you points others to life in Christ!!!
