It is easy to assume that being thankful is a feeling that propels us to express our gratitude by giving back in some way, or at the very least, saying “thank you.” We count our blessings, which often are made manifest by comparing our situation to that of someone less fortunate.

Certainly there are many benefits to recognizing all that we have been given. It is far better to survey the landscape of our lives and feel grateful than it is to feel miserable. And when we recognize all we have been given, that does typically move us to either pay it back or pay it forward in some way.

But I think there’s another layer. I think we can move from saying “thank you,” to feeling deep gratitude and giving back, to finally orienting our lives in a way that reflects our thankfulness without any specific prompting or motivating factor. I think, ultimately, our lives can become thanksgiving..

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Do you feel satisfied with your life? Are you content? Do you find yourself thinking “I would be satisfied if only I had X?” Has the goalpost of X ever moved for you? What does being satisfied even mean? The Bible has things to say about all of that in both the Old and New Testaments.

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This week’s message invites us to think about an ancient legend in which Christians have often seen a reflection of our own faith: The Phoenix that is consumed in flame in order to be born anew from the ashes. Jesus talks about being baptized by fire. The United Methodist symbol is a cross and flame. How do we understand fire in a Christian context and what might the legend of the Phoenix have to teach us?

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Those of us in religious professions are always asked about our “sense of call.” How did we come to know and experience God calling us into our various forms of ministry? But the focus on religious vocations has often led people to assume that God doesn’t call people to other types of service or professions. I believe God is calling each and every person as well as the churches, organizations, and corporate entities of which they are a part.

So in this sermon we’re going to begin a conversation about calling and vocation both inside and outside the church. How can we know it’s God’s voice on the phone? Is there some kind of purpose for my life; and, if so, how do I figure that out? What might God be calling Crawford to be and do as we bring our individual callings together for the greater good?

Your phone is ringing. There’s a notification for you on the God app. Join us to explore the ways God might be trying to help you find fulfillment and purpose.

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