On fire for the Lord this Thanksgiving

As I write this, I find myself overwhelmed with gratitude. A year ago, I was just coming out of the hospital, having survived a heart attack that required resuscitation 10 times. There are no words to fully express my gratitude to God for bringing me through that experience. I must emphasize, though, that this message is not about me. It’s about God’s power, His healing touch and His boundless mercy.

I don’t want anyone to think I’m the focus here. Instead, I hope that by sharing my journey, someone who is struggling will see what God can do. Reflecting on this past year, I am awestruck by His blessings. I prayed that I would live to see my grandson graduate, and by God’s grace, I did. Not only did I witness his graduation, but I’ve also seen him start his college journey at Hampton University.

This year has been filled with blessings I could never have anticipated. The Reverend Dr. Alyn E. Waller, a trustee at Palmer Seminary, nominated me for an honorary doctorate, and I was humbled to receive it. God has opened doors I never thought possible. I attended the Democratic National Convention, witnessing the historic moment when Kamala Harris was nominated for president. I celebrated another year of life and another year of marriage with my beloved wife.

Reflecting on these blessings, I feel an unquenchable fire in my soul. I am back in church, preaching two sermons each Sunday and keeping up with my schedule. Now, I go to the gym three days a week for physical therapy, trusting that God will continue to strengthen me.

This Thanksgiving, my heart overflows as I anticipate spending time with my family and celebrating another year of life. I urge each of you to pause, despite whatever trials you may have faced—be it illness, unemployment or personal loss — and give thanks to God. Through every storm, He has brought us through, and we owe Him our praise.

Don’t let this Thanksgiving pass without taking a moment to acknowledge God’s goodness. “To whom much is given, much is required.” For the rest of my life, no matter how long it may be, I am committed to serving God with all my heart, soul and mind. The doors He has opened for me this year are astonishing, and I look forward to the blessings He has in store, not only for myself but for all of His people.

I’m also excited to attend the conference for Jefferson Health in Orlando, Florida, where I serve as a trustee. Additionally, I look forward to the ongoing work God is doing at Bethlehem, as we celebrate 136 years of His faithfulness. It’s awe-inspiring to witness God’s hand at work. My heart overflows with gratitude, and I know without a doubt that I am called to give Him thanks and praise.

Your story may be different from mine, but each of us has a story, and God deserves all the glory for every blessing. I am deeply grateful for the many prayers, cards, visits and expressions of love I received. From my pastor, Reverend Dr. Albert Franklin Campbell, to friends like Rev. Dr. Alyn E. Waller of Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church, and even a visit from Governor Josh Shapiro — these acts of kindness remind me of the journey God has brought me through.

We all need reminders of God’s goodness, so we don’t forget His faithfulness. This Thanksgiving, take a moment to reflect on what God has done and anticipate the blessings yet to come.

This Thanksgiving, I am not in a hospital bed. I am not constrained by illness. I am on my feet, clapping my hands, lifting my voice and praising God with all my heart. I look forward to what lies ahead and pray that this Thanksgiving, you too will take time to acknowledge God’s goodness, grace and mercy in your life.

God bless you, and Happy Thanksgiving to all of God’s people.