From Consumerism to Gratitude: Three Shifts for Church Community

Rooted Together#2From Consumerism to Gratitude: Three Shifts for Church CommunitySpeaker: Rev. Ho-Ming J. TsuiScripture: 1 Thessalonians 5:12-18A community is a group of people who share an identity-forming story that is so important to them that it defines an aspect of who they are.The Story of Consumerisma) Consumerism started as a marketing strategyb) Consumerism has become a dominant worldviewc) Consumerism has infiltrated the church12 Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. 13 Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. 14 And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. 15 Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else. 16 Rejoice always, 17 pray continually, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.—1 Thessalonians 5:12-18Shift 1: From Entitlement to Appreciation (vv. 12-13)Application: Thank someone not only for what they’ve done for you, but acknowledge the cost of their service and express appreciation for their heart to serveShift 2: From Apathy to Responsibility (vv. 13b-15)Application: Identify someone in our community who fits into one of Paul’s categories—someone who seems disheartened, struggling, or needs encouragement.Shift 3: From Comparison to Contentment (vv. 16-18)Application: For the next month, begin each day by thanking God for three specific things about our church community.Conclusion: If we want to cultivate a culture of gratitude, we must immerse ourselves in a story of grace. The gospel creates grateful people.