"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen." Ephesians 3:20-21 NKJV
These verses have been special to Saving Susan Ministry since the beginning. Time and again we have seen God bless our work abundantly, far beyond measure of what we ask in our prayers. We have seen this at work many times this year, including a beautiful new partnership with Manos de Compasion in Guatemala, an incredible evening of impact at our Green Tie Gala, the spiritual training and development of our students in our Next Steps Program, and so many other ways. The verse is a reminder to us that all glory goes to God for what He has done. If any one of our team says, “that was an Ephesians 3:20 moment,” we all know well what that means, and believe me, we have said it many times this year!
As we pause once again for our annual Thanksgiving celebrations, I hope you also can take a moment to reflect on these verses. One word that stands out in the context of Thanksgiving is the word “Abundant.” This word originates from the Latin word, “abundare,” meaning “overflowing, full; rich, abounding.” The centerpiece of the table for many of us at family gatherings is a cornucopia, a symbol of abundance for a bountiful harvest given by God. The pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving to thank the Lord for a bountiful harvest and His provision and grace following a difficult year of travel, sickness, and scarcity.
As we prepare our hearts and minds to celebrate Thanksgiving this year, let us reflect on the true meaning of the holiday. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 2:9, ““Eye has not seen, nor ear heard, nor have entered into the heart of man the things which God has prepared for those who love Him.” As we celebrate the abundance of God’s grace and blessings here on earth, may we look forward even more to the overflowing riches waiting for us in heaven.
This year at Saving Susan Ministry, we are thankful for many things - our amazing Parent Partners, staff, orphan community partners, the children we serve, our donors, prayer warriors, board members, volunteers, and everyone else who makes this ministry possible. You are a big part of the “abundance” the Lord provides for our ministry. The glory goes to God! Amen.
-Adam Reiley
Operations Manager, Saving Susan Ministry
