Slideshow image

This message takes us into the twilight years of King David's life, found in 2 Samuel 21, where we discover a profound truth: battles exist in every season of life. David, once the giant-slayer and mighty warrior, now finds himself exhausted on the battlefield, requiring rescue from his own men. This isn't a story of failure but a revelation about the human experience. Evil doesn't take generational breaks, and every season brings its own struggles. Yet here's where the beauty emerges: while we cannot deny our troubles, they need not define us. Just as having a cell phone doesn't encompass the totality of who we are, our sorrows and pains are real but shouldn't overshadow our identity as people of joy and celebration. The scripture calls us repeatedly to rejoice, from Isaiah's declaration that his soul rejoices in God to Paul's command to rejoice always. God embedded celebration into the very fabric of Israelite life through festivals and Sabbaths, not after all battles were won, but in the midst of ongoing struggles. Why? Because God knew we are forgetful people who easily fixate on what's broken rather than what's blessed. This Thanksgiving week becomes our opportunity to practice sacred celebration, to intentionally fill our prayers with specific thanksgiving, to focus on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. We're invited to put down our swords, step away from unfinished projects, and simply enjoy what is, making this week a true appointed festival of remembrance and joy.