Guest Post from Tom Berlin

This week, we are talking about the paradoxes of gratitude. Today, we have a guest post from my Bishop, Tom Berlin, as he reaffirms much of what I said yesterday.  

Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Karen and I will gather with our daughters and their husbands at the Outer Banks of North Carolina, along with my father, my brothers and their families. Thanksgiving is a time to gather with family and friends, or volunteer to care for others in the community. Thanksgiving invites us to pause, reflect, and recognize the many blessings that fill our lives. In a world often marked by uncertainty and challenge, gratitude helps us see God’s abundance, even in the everyday moments and unexpected places. The apostle Paul wrote, Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. (I Thessalonians 5:16-18 NRSV)

When we do as Paul wrote, our perspective shifts from what we might lack or what makes us anxious and allows us to awaken to the grace of God that surrounds us and is working for our good, even in the worst of circumstances. The act of thanksgiving reminds us that God is with us, and God can do far more than we can ask or imagine.

I am thankful for each of you. Let me share my deepest thanks to each lay member, clergy, and lay leader of The Florida Conference. Your faithfulness, your tireless dedication to ministry, and your commitment to making disciples are a true inspiration. You serve with extraordinary grace—bringing hope, compassion, and strength to our churches, neighborhoods, and communities. You have shared your faith. You have offered acts of compassion to those in need. You have participated in acts of justice throughout this year, and I am grateful for each of you and all you offer as United Methodists. Your work makes a real difference in countless lives.

I’m grateful for all you have done and continue to do as disciples of Jesus Christ here in Florida. May you experience the peace and joy that come from a heart filled with gratitude and may God’s grace sustain you in every step you take.

Thank you for your devotion and service this year. I hope you have a very happy Thanksgiving and may God’s love fill your homes and all that you do.

In Christ,

Tom

Bishop Tom Berlin
Resident Bishop, Florida Conference
The United Methodist Church

P. S.  This is Day 2 of our “40 Days of Gratitude.”  How will you express it today?