Saint Athanasius Lutheran Church

Tonight, we reflect on Paul’s powerful call to Timothy: first of all, pray. Paul, once a persecutor of Christians, understood firsthand the transformative power of prayer and God’s mercy. Perhaps prayers from those he once hunted played a role in his redemption—a living testament to God’s desire for all to be saved. Paul urges us to pray not just for blessings, but with thanksgiving—even in difficult circumstances. Like Israel in the wilderness or the leper before healing, we may not see God’s blessings immediately. Yet, through faith, we trust that He works all things for our good, especially through Jesus, who prayed for us and redeemed us. So, we gather not just for a day of Thanksgiving, but every week, to pray, be fed, and give thanks. Through Jesus, we find peace and a quiet heart, no matter life’s chaos. Thanks be to God!