“Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:18
One of the great blessings of life is being a parent. It is something that fills you with great joy. It is not easy being a parent. Raising children requires patience, hard work, and lots of money. Many families find it challenging just to provide the basic necessities of shelter, food, and clothing. For a young, married couple, a baby provides many changes and challenges.
Earl Guynes was a 22-year-old with a wife and a newborn son. Earl was working hard to provide for his family, but he needed to raise some additional income to support his young family. Earl made the decision to sell his 1967 Chevrolet Camaro, the car of his dreams, so they could have the money they needed to care for their son, Jared. It is the type of selfless decision that parents frequently make. Earl sacrificed so his family would be cared for.
Jared Guynes is now a grown and successful man, but he recalls the many times when Jared was younger that Earl spoke about his beloved Camaro. He would often describe it in detail to Jared. When Jared got older, Earl told Jason that he sold his Camaro for “diaper money.” Jared had a hard time believing that because he only knew his dad as a minivan driver. He would later realize that the Camaro was not a figment of his father’s imagination.
It is the season of thanksgiving and Jared wanted to express his gratitude to his father. He started a nationwide search for a 1967 Camaro, just like the one his dad sold for “diaper money.” Jared found just what he was looking for. He bought and began to restore the blue 1967 Camara with two white racing stripes from front to back. On Earl’s 65th birthday, Jared revealed the dream car to Earl. It was the best way Jared could express his gratitude for all his dad had done for him.
Jared told the local news, “I wanted my dad to know how much I love him, how much he means to me, and how incredible he was as a father. And the greatest way to do that was to bring back the Camaro. It was always the Camaro.” Earl was overcome with emotion. Jared was blessed by expressing his gratitude, and Earl was overjoyed with such a gift.
Gratitude is a powerful emotion and a necessary expression. When we take time to let others know how grateful we are for them and what they have done for us, it blesses both of us. Gratitude reminds us of all that we have. It also tells the people who have blessed us that they have made a difference. It is not necessary to buy a classic sports car for everyone who has made a difference in your life, but it is essential to say, ‘Thank you.’
As we approach Thanksgiving, let us take time to write a card, send a text, make a phone call, and say thank you to the people in our lives who have made a difference. Gratitude is a blessing for all and good for our souls.
Rev. Keith King, Pastor of Worship
