While the word “thanks” does not require an object in the English language, theologically it is like a transitive verb—it requires an object to complete its meaning. Just as you cannot simply "give" without passing something along to another person, you cannot truly give thanks without directing that thanks to someone. To attempt thanksgiving without addressing the source is like speaking in an empty room.

Our sense of how God is at work may not always correspond with what he’s actually doing. We might assume that if people are moved by a service, are touched by a song, or physically express their praise to the Lord through shouting, kneeling or bowing that God is at work in their heart. He might indeed be at work in their heart. But it could also be that they just love a certain song.

It's both easy and challenging to plan for Advent & Christmas services. It's easy in the sense that most people are happy to sing their favorite carols. As long as the musicians don't do something that obscures or messes up the carol, people will enjoy it and be edified by the words. But it’s also challenging because we tell the same story each season and we want things to feel fresh.

When does Jesus’ story begin? Matthew and Luke tell us the story beginning with the events surrounding his birth, but also trace his genealogy back to the beginning of the human race. John goes back even further, telling us that the Word was with God in the beginning, and He tells that he was in the beginning with God, nothing that has been made was made without him.

While confession of sin has been a part of many historic Christian liturgies, it is not a regular part of many of evangelical services.

There are a variety of reasons for this, including the fact that confession is s “downer” if the goal is to produce a rousing, emotionally positive experience.

But what could be more rousing than confessing your sin and then remembering that they are all forgiven through the blood of Jesus?