Dear Pastor and Brethren:
Thanksgiving Gratitude
Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday of the year because the practice of it seems to be more in line with the graces of God’s Word and holy living. We are so blessed by all the good things that come from our Lord that it is necessary to slow down a bit to be able to contemplate on at least some of them. I like sound doctrine because it lies at the bottom of everything I do. It comes from God’s Word and a careful study of it. I use it to test the doctrine of hymns because many hymns have been written by men and women who were not of like precious faith and order. I use it as a basis to test the doctrine of those with whom I might like to fellowship. I use it to test the writings of all authors I read. I am thankful for it because I see the need of many believers to know it as well and can pass it along in my preaching. I am very thankful for sound doctrine because it keeps me on the right pathway into the presence of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Thanksgiving Activity
Roxanne and I had an unusual Thanksgiving Day because one of the ladies who attends our services invited us to her home for Thanksgiving dinner. Our family gathering had been postponed until the following Saturday, so Roxanne and I prepared ourselves to eat together at home when La Shonda called us and invited us to come that very afternoon for turkey and all the trimmings. What a delightful time we had, and what delicious food she prepared! I think that that occasion was the only one during my 69 years since the Holy Spirit called me to preach that I have eaten a Thanksgiving meal with a family outside of my family circle. It was truly a blessing! The following Saturday, Roxanne and I did unite with our family members at our son Nathan’s house and shared a good meal and sang hymns together – a blessing indeed!
Additional Activity
We started another Sunday School class for Bro. Jose Bautista’s daughter Josselyn to attend. Sis. Gaches is happy to be teaching it. Josselyn is thirteen years old and bilingual so there is no language barrier to overcome. In our services, we had some low attendance due to sickness but hopefully the Lord will bring everyone back to hear the preaching of his Word soon. As for the Spanish outreach, we had nine court appearances with Spanish speaking men during the entire month. We do appreciate your prayers and giving for the Lord’s work here.
By His grace and in loving gratitude,
Tim & Roxanne Parrow
II Tim. 1:7