Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
"Just over four centuries ago, strengthened by faith and bound by a common desire for liberty, Pilgrims sought out a place in the New World where they could worship according to their own beliefs." They sold all they had and, departing initially on the leaky Speedwell, eventually made the perilous trip successfully aboard the Mayflower. Before disembarking the vessel, those who were believers in Jesus Christ sat down with those on the ship called “strangers” to pen the first written form of government in what would later become the United States of America.
These Puritan Separatists had escaped England and King James I. They then traveled to the Netherlands and, in short order, became persecuted for their radical beliefs. Returning to England, they fled Plymouth on 16 September 1620 and landed in the New World on 21 November.
We complain when the pew is uncomfortable, or the pastor gets too “preachy”. Many of these travelers gave their lives in an effort to worship biblically.
Let us give an extra portion of thanks this month to the one true God. He is the believer’s perfect Savior. He is the provider of breath and bread. He is the only one worthy of our gratitude and thanksgiving.
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. - 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
-Timothy Pearce
