Text of the week

In the middle of all the fascinating events that have unfolded in the U.S.A. during the last few months, I found myself watching a television report on the presidential pardoning of the Thanksgiving Day turkey!

On the fourth Thursday of each November, Americans celebrate Thanksgiving by consuming millions of turkeys. However, for one fortunate bird there is an escape from this early demise. It is now a modern tradition that the President pardons a single turkey who usually gets to live the rest of his days in peace, luxury and with some celebrity. This year I watched as President Obama pardoned a grateful turkey on the lawn of the White House.

It had done nothing to deserve such a pardon, but for the unsuspecting creature it meant freedom.

As a follower of Jesus I too have been pardoned. Realising that I have done many things that are wrong, and being truly sorry, I asked the Saviour to pardon my sins and accept me as one of His own children. The Bible assures me that my pardon has been granted.

I had done nothing to deserve such a pardon, but being reconciled to God means I am now eternally free from any condemnation - and that calls for another Thanksgiving celebration.

Pastor Ken Bleakley,

Larbert Baptist Church