Pastor's Message - November 2026

~Gratitude = Generosity~

“Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of

God in Christ Jesus for you.”

~I Thessalonians 5:18

Dear Members and Friends,

We’re all influenced by a few key historical figures, right? Who are some of yours? In addition to being a follower of Jesus, Calvin, and Tillich, I’m fond of an ancient Roman philosopher, Marcus Aurelius. He was not a “systematic philosopher” who got paid to think deep thoughts. He did not publish inscrutable tomes on the nature of reality or teach at a university or divinity school. Aurelius was more of an armchair philosopher whose day job was to rule the known world. He was one of the so-called “Seven Good Emperors” of the Roman Empire. Most Caesars before and after him were corrupt and cruel; their power went to their heads. But there were seven Caesars who endeavored always to be humble, fair, and kind. His famous book, Meditations, is just a lot of advice he gives himself about how to live and be–and it ends up being good advice for any human being. Aurelius begins the book by naming and giving thanks for all the mentors, friends, and family members who made him into the person he is. He doesn’t

thank them for the riches they left to him or any material gifts, but for the examples they set, or the kindness they showed, or the wisdom they imparted. One bit of advice he gives to his young self is this: “When you arise in the morning, think of what a precious privilege it is to be alive—to breathe, to think, to enjoy, to love.” Would that all this world’s leaders, past and present, could be so grateful and wise.

November is a good time to pause and reflect on the people whose influence gave you whatever wisdom you possess, and who modeled for you the virtues that have served you all your years. Why November? Well, because it has All Saints’ Day–when we remember such folks. And because it has Thanksgiving, obviously. And because it was

historically a time when the crops had all been gathered in and preserved for the coming winter; the summer’s labor was done; the holidays were coming, and the shortening days meant longer sleep. It was a time to rest and be grateful.

Church life kicks off November by recognizing the “saints” who have gone before us and given us so much of what we have and are. In November, too, we ask the faithful how they will shape the world with their example and generosity. What resources will you set aside for the missions, music, worship, preaching, and teaching that we do at

(and through) Bower Hill Church? We ask you to “pledge” so we can put together a budget to carry out those ministries. The theme of our stewardship drive this year is, “God loves a cheerful giver” (II Corinthians 9:7). We chose that theme because we believe there’s joy in sharing yourself and your resources with causes you believe in.

And so, a few things: First, maybe just in a spare moment, compile a list of people who made you what and who you are. Name the gifts they gave you, as Marcus Aurelius did, and give thanks for them. Second, think about the things this church does that you could never do alone. What are its ministries worth to you? Make a pledge for 2027. Do it thankfully; do it cheerfully. And third, give thanks. “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

Christ’s Peace,

~Brian