Many hymns come from the author’s dramatic experience. H. P. Spafford, (It is Well With My Soul), for example wrote about his own feelings after his wife and children were tragically taken in a ship wreck. Our foundation hymn for November 20, 2011 comes simply from the author’s realization of God’s great faithfulness. Great is Thy Faithfulness was written by Thomas O. Chisholm, 1866 – 1960.
Thomas wrote many poems in his life. In 1923, he sent several of his poems to Rev. W. M. Runyan, a musician associated with Moody Bible Institute. Thomas included his record of the unfailing faithfulness of his Covenant-
Keeping God. This poem spoke of the many wonderful displays of God’s providing care. Thomas had been amazed by the way God provided for him. He had no college degree or even a high school diploma. He never made much money yet he always felt the hand of Jehovah-Jireh, The Lord Will Provide, on his life.
Thomas wrote,
“Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth. Thy own dear presence to cheer and to guide. Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow. Blessings all mine with ten thousand to beside.”

Thanksgiving is this week and we will open our worship service with “Count Your Blessings”.
“When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed
When you are discouraged thinking all is lost
Count your many blessings name them one by one
And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done”

After we have “Counted our blessings” we will sing Hosanna (Praise is Rising) “Come have Your way among us. We welcome You here Lord Jesus” is the phrase in this song that is so meaningful to me. It is an invitation to Jesus to have His way in this church. “Lord this is Your church. Let Your will be done in this church” is my prayer.
Next, we will sing Holy is the Lord. This morning pay attention to the words that you sing. This song says “For the Joy of the Lord is our strength”. We have strength through the Joy of the Lord! Great is Thy Faithfulness will lead us to a chorus simply named Sanctuary. This chorus is really a prayer. “Lord prepare me to be a sanctuary, pure and holy, tried and true. With thanksgiving, I’ll be a living sanctuary for you”. As we come to a time of prayer, lead by Pastor Al, be willing for God to “Prepare you”. This will take a heart that trusts God and a spirit that is surrendered completely to Him. Is that you? Are you ready to be “Prepared” by God?