We have so many things to be thankful for but when adversity comes, it usually robs our joy. I am joyful to be re-opening our Sunday services this week. I am thankful that the COVID-19 virus is settling down and people can get on with their lives. I’m thankful that Fayette County had very few cases of illness due to this virus. God has been merciful to us.

Suddenly there is breaking news!

Protests have turned into major rioting in many of the cities in the United States. Every news outlet is focused on the anarchy in the streets. The anarchists are burning buildings owned by innocent people. Street gangs are breaking display windows and stealing the merchandise in storefronts. Antagonizers are blocking the streets and attacking law enforcement officers. Then in just a few minutes our thankful spirit is suppressed and our joy leaks out; or does it?

Maybe we are just distracted by the acts of lawless people. That does not change the fact that on Sunday we are going to have our first church service together in about two-and-a-half months. Or that the COVID-19 virus is settling down and we can start to get on with our lives. Fayette County is not experiencing anarchy in the streets.

Could it be, that being thankful and experiencing joy is a result of our focus?

These are the every day issues we explore from a biblical perspective at 10:30 every Sunday morning at The Gathering Place Church.