On October 3, 1839 the proclamation, which set the precedent for America's national day of Thanksgiving, began with Abraham Lincoln acknowledging God’s blessings on the nation, to which he added: To these bounties, which are so constantly enjoyed that we are prone to forget the source from which they come…
The proclamation concludes:I do therefore invite my fellow citizens in every part of the United States, and also those who are at sea and those who are sojourning in foreign lands, to set apart and observe the last Thursday of November next, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.
Now, 175 years later, may we continue the tradition of recognizing God’s goodness and expressing our gratefulness to Him.
Praise Reports: Raval We ended October’s update with these words, “Your prayers are paving the way, preparing hearts and opening doors in Raval – even before we arrive there!” A few weeks later, some colleagues were in Raval singing praises and praying for people. As a result, one of the prostitutes gave her heart to Jesus – the first visible fruit! Thank you for interceding for the people of Raval. How true the words of Corrie Ten Boon, “A man is powerful on his knees.”
Financial In September we asked you to pray “for affordable, safe housing” for us in Barcelona. An apartment in downtown Barcelona has been made available to us that's only a 10 minute walk to Raval! We will even be able to purchase most of the furniture already in it.
Prayer Requests: Ministry On November 12 we are scheduled for an all-day visit to the Dream Center in Lubbock, TX. Pray that we receive wisdom and insight from the experiences and strategies of this ministry model to adapt for Raval.
Final Preparations We are in the final month of itineration and in less than 2 months we return to Spain. There are lots of details to tend to – pray for our stamina and energy for this phase.
Finally, the words of Ephesians 1:16 express our hearts: I never stop thanking God for you.I always remember you in my prayers.Your prayers are precious and powerful and we are acutely aware of their essential role. Thank you.
