In this season of thankfulness, we reflect on three priceless gifts from God that shape our lives and work: His Word, His Son, and His Church. Each of these gifts not only affects us personally but should fuel our mission to make God’s truth known among all nations.
First, I am deeply thankful for the Word of God. Recently I was pondering how fortunate I am to have it in written form that I can read. It is a light that guides my steps and a foundation on which I can build. Bible translation lies at the heart of this gift, for when the Scriptures are translated into every language, God’s written truth reaches new hearts, transforming lives and giving hope. The Psalmist reminds us, “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). Bringing God’s Word into every language and community is a mission of love and compassion. Every nation and tongue deserves to have the Scriptures in its mother tongue. As we labor in Bible translation, we give thanks for the power of His Word to draw hearts nearer to Him.
Secondly, we give thanks for Jesus, the perfect Lamb of God, who made Himself knowable to us. Through His sacrifice and the shedding of His blood, He bridged the gap between a holy God and sinful humanity, inviting us into a relationship with Him. His life, death, and resurrection not only opened the way for salvation but also revealed the heart of God, making it possible for us to truly know Him. “And this is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent” (John 17:3). This gift of knowing Jesus transforms our lives and fuels our mission, compelling us to share His love and truth with others. As we bring the message of the gospel to the nations, we celebrate the profound privilege of introducing others to the One who longs to be known by every soul.
The third gift is the Church itself, a community of believers called to love and serve. The Church is not only a gathering of people, but a living, bodily expression of God’s love in the world. Community development reflects this mission, where we work to improve lives, support families, and develop resources that uplift entire communities. The Church is a city on a hill, called to shine God’s light in practical ways, providing for needs and meeting people where they are. Together, we influence the world around us, seeking the shalom—the wholeness and peace—that God always intended.
As we reflect on these gifts—His Word, His Son, and His Church—may our hearts overflow with thanksgiving. These blessings have the potential to inform our vision, reminding us of the power of God’s love and truth to change lives and communities. Let’s be thankful for the privilege of sharing His Word, planting Churches, and building His Kingdom, for the purpose of seeing His shalom blossom in every community and culture around the world.
—— Harold R. Troyer