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 Psalm 95:2 “Let us come before Him with thanksgiving, and extol him with music and songs
The Singles came from all over Boston, converging on Oak Hill Middle School, arms full of their favorite foods, specially prepared and ready to serve. Not only were arms full, carrying their “special recipe” rice & beans or made-from-scratch crescent rolls, but also “full” were their hearts, eager for sweet fellowship and a chance to share and be together at this Thanksgiving Devotional. “Jubilant Feet” brought us a dance to help us “celebrate before the Lord”. In addition, Suzanne Clark encouraged us all with her song of “Thanks” as we closed out the night. By the end of the evening, over 300 disciples were fed…. and much more than just the baked goods were sweet!
 Oh, it’s wasn’t just about the food, for that wasn’t our prime focus. It was the chance to be together with the people we love, and the opportunity to slow down and remember our blessings, and share those sentiments together. There was a certain buzz in the air, an expectation of something great, and a realization that God - the giver of good things - is doing something among them….and with them! Over the last several months, the Singles Ministry has taken on an “attitude”, and gratitude defines that new attitude! Whenever there’s an opportunity to come together, they show up in great numbers. “One another” describes this group, as they look for ways to spur one another to “love and good deeds.” It’s this gratitude that turned this meal into a feast, turned a stranger into a friend on this night. And it’s gratitude that helps create a new vision for tomorrow.
“I’m thankful for God who cares about all I go through”, “I’m thankful for my roommate, for helping me be strong through a very difficult year”…”My brother…he has loved me unconditionally, and for that I’m grateful”…”My family group…they always believed in me and never let me give up”, “ I want to come back to God, and I thank the sisters for helping me.”, “I’m thankful that I’m protected and loved”.
 These are just a few of the sentiments shared during this wondrous evening. Hugs were given, tears were shed. It was a time to recall how rich our fellowship is – how much God has blessed us. It also became a time to renew our dreams and re-commit to “be there” for one another. The following hymn aptly describes the feeling one gets when this group is together:
Sweet, Sweet Spirit
There's a sweet sweet spirit in this place - and I know that it's the spirit of the Lord
There are sweet expressions on each face - And I know that it's the presence of the Lord
Sweet Holy Spirit, Sweet heavenly dove-Stay right here with us, Filling us with your love
And for these blessings we lift our hearts in praise
Without a doubt we'll know that we have been revived, when we shall leave this place.
 This Thanksgiving devotional will be just one of many defining moments for the brothers and sisters in Boston Singles Ministry. Terry and I consider it a great honor to work side-by-side with these amazing men and women, and are ready to see God do even more than we can ask or imagine!
Sue Folker
Women’s Ministry Leader,
Boston Church of Christ
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