n the grand scheme of things Thanksgiving Day may seem like another of those holidays that take a lot of work to get ready for and is over in just a few minutes. Preparation for the meal may start hours or even days before the actual event. Arrangements for travel and table seating are the stuff of discussion and phone calls well in advance of the big day. Children of all ages begin to fantasize about going to grandma's house or mom and dad's for a great time and that amazing meal that lasts all day.

Christians should be the absolute best at giving thanks. We have the most to be thankful for and are encouraged to express that attitude in all things. We preach our own personal sermon by how well we demonstrate thankful hearts. Real Christians are sharing caring people who know they are abundantly blessed and act like it. Our Thanksgiving/ New Member dinner last Sunday evening was a clear view of blessed people sharing their blessings with those around them. After a marvelous meal served to a large group of hungry folks, we sang some thankful songs of praise to our Lord. Then we opened the microphone to anyone wanting to reveal what he or she was thankful for. The testimonies were varied and rich. Those sharing ranged in age from six to nearly ninety. Some were stories of simple praise, while others told of trials through which God had won the victory and proven Himself to be the loving Father He is. Some spoke of victories in their spiritual life and growth at Hillside, while others related how God had led them through personal trials and cared for them in their hour of greatest need. We were all richly blessed, and were all witnesses to many examples of The Lord keeping Jesus' promise of the "abundant life" he gave in the tenth chapter of John.

Preparations for Hillside's Christmas Program are well under way. The children are learning songs and lines on Wednesday and Sunday evening. Sets and props are being constructed and rounded up for the production. As usual, the presentation will feature the incarnation of Christ and how lives are changed by His life and saving grace. The program is scheduled for December 14th at 7:00pm. Everyone is invited to join us for this joyous evening of celebration at the birth of our Savior and King.