November 2025 Update

Dear Ones:

THANKSGIVING is over already—or is it? The traditional turkey dinner and family gathering, etc. are over quickly, and then it’s life again as “usual”. Trying to be “thankful” one day a year is almost impossible. The psalmist said, “Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me bless his holy name.” Evidently, praise and thanksgiving are not only actions, but an ongoing attitude! Otherwise, how could Paul honestly say, “in everything give thanks, for this is the will of God...concerning you”? (1 Thess. 5:18) Note that it says “in everything” rather than “for” everything. By faith (sometimes with tears?) we “count it all joy” knowing that God is mindful and will produce something beneficial. In these past months I have really struggled with this concept.

To give thanks is likened to the O.T. priest offering an animal sacrifice unto God. Since Jesus Christ fulfilled that debt (once for all), the believer now gladdens the Lord’s heart through his “offering” of grateful, sacrificial praise! It’s described in Heb. 13:15 as “the fruit of our lips (continually) giving thanks to His name.” I suspect that “giving” thanks isn’t based on feeling per/se but by willingness. Like the marriage relationship, love is basically a commitment of the will rather than emotion. But thank God when feeling is included!

O, to be constantly filled with the Spirit Who alone can produce within us that genuine “attitude of gratitude”! That’s my need, for sure, and probably yours. Let’s have a serious talk with Jesus about this matter. OK?

Thanks for your intercession as I face prostate surgery on Dec. 8th. I go for a “pre-op” session on Monday the1st. The surgery is about two hours long with an overnight stay in the hospital. Thankfully, my daughter Deb will be with me during that time. I look forward to a new level of independence and “normalcy”.

It’s been great to be back at the Mission. Frankly, I feel “at home” again in that niche. God has been faithful to use His Word to touch many lives. Continue to pray for the Mission staff and the opportunities to minister as the Mission is at full capacity with needy people.

I thought with Christmas ahead, you might want to check my website www.BillFinnigan.com for possible gifts. There may be something there that will meet a need in a friend or family member.

Thanks again for your friendship and fellowship in the Gospel. God’s abundant blessing upon each of you is my prayer.

With my love and gratitude,

Pastor Bill

Psa. 100