Baptist Thanks

I’m not much for trite sayings during this time of season.  I’ve made up a satirical song for thanksgiving about Mr. Turkey, but I’ll spare you the sing-a-long.  I’ve also been somewhat AWOL in the blogging community because doctoral work has been overwhelming.  There is a season for everything, and I appreciate my fellow bloggers for carrying my dead weight.  

 In keeping with the central theme of this blog – I want to tell you how thankful I am for my Baptist heritage.  It’s a passion and vision that remains rooted and real in my own life.   As a historian it’s important that names like Lottie Moon not become relics relegated to the distant memories of a fading generation.   I am thankful for the Cooperative Program that helps pay my tuition at Southern Seminary in doctoral work and contributed to my M.Div at Southwestern.  I am thankful for the vast army of missionaries serving sacrificially at home and abroad.  I could take hours to spell out the vast contributions Southern Baptists have made just in my family. 

Many call us the establishment blog.  I tend to differ with this assessment because all of us believe there is much in Baptist life that needs attention.  It remains my contention that many that are villified, satirized, and caricatured in Baptist life are staunch stalwarts of the Christian faith.   Some that I thought from characterizations of others were somehow tainted and inapproachable have from personal observation and interaction demonstrated tremendous civility, approachability, and exhibited grace in the midst of adversity.  Thanks to all who serve diligently to see the Kingdom of God grow and expand.