Devotion

In February, we considered the practice of praying the alphabet described in the book Mercy and Melons. The author reflects on two words; one word describing an ordinary object and a second that relates to faith. For example, for the letter “V” she focused on “Votive Ships and Vows.”

I thought of those votive ships while reflecting on thankfulness. Beginning in 15th-century Europe, sailors made models of ships and presented them to the church. The models represented an offering for God’s protection before a journey or a symbol of thanksgiving after surviving a dangerous voyage. The ships were hung in the sanctuary of their churches. 

In 2021, Saint Paul’s Episcopal church in Brooklyn, which once displayed votive ships in its sanctuary, decided to commission a new votive ship. It was an offering of thanksgiving to God for surviving the hardships of the COVID-19 pandemic. The votive ship became a tangible reminder of hope and gratitude.

Why use a tangible object to remind us to express our thankfulness to God? Colossians 4:2 CEB tells us to “Keep on praying and guard your prayers with thanksgiving.” The numerous challenges we face today may threaten our faith. Praising God shifts our focus from hardship to blessing, transforming our attitude. In that way, thankfulness guards our prayers. This month, consider placing an object or picture that reminds you of God’s blessings in a prominent place. When you see it, thank God. You’ll be guarding your prayers with gratitude. 

Prayer Request

Prayers are requested for Rev. Dick Curry and his wife Rebecca. Rev. Curry has been in the hospital this week. Notes of Comfort can be sent to Dick and Rebecca Curry, 117 Melody Ln, Salisbury, MO 65281

This Week's Churches and Pastors 

Northeast District

November 3

Paris 
Church Council Chair Donald Murphy

November 4

Park (Hannibal)/First (Hannibal)
Senior Pastor Kim Parker

November 5

Salem in Ballwin
Senior Pastor John Kinnard

November 6

Salem in Ladue
Senior Pastor Terri Swan and spouse Joe
Associate Pastor Deborah LeMoine and spouse Bryan
Associate Pastor Tim Power and spouse Jessica
Associate Pastor Elisabeth Danielson
Associate Pastor Nick Savage and spouse Elizabeth

November 7

Saverton /Ilasco
Senior Pastor Richard Stilley (Rich) and spouse Stephanie

November 8

Scotland County Parish Arbela/Granger
Supply Pastor Kathy Gardner and spouse Ronald

November 9

Scott’s Chapel
Senior Pastor Helen McFarland

November 10

Shiloh (Foristell)
Senior Pastor Meagan O’Brien and spouse Todd