Gratitude is a discipline that followers of Jesus are called to practice. Paul gives one of the most challenging reminders of this in 1 Thessalonians 5:18. He says, “Give thanks in all circumstances.” And then he adds, “for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Gratitude is one clear expression of God’s will for us in Christ. Gratitude forms alignment with God’s purpose. It creates an anchor of trust during trials, and it surrenders our hearts to God’s transforming work. Gratitude is one way of saying, “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” To be thankful is to surrender in obedience to God’s will. Christians understand that in every circumstance, we have a choice. We can choose God’s will in Christ Jesus, or we can allow the will of others—or the will of the world—to shape our lives. For Paul, gratitude is both something we practice but it also a way we surrender. Gratitude is also a trait of the resurrected life. Who we are together. River Corner Church is a growing church community of everyday people who gather to worship God, follow Jesus, and journey through life together. What we practice together. Our small church community is uniquely caring, simple, laid-back, and intergenerational. As a church, we want to be a welcoming, safe, and healing community for those who are seeking, hurting, or need a place to belong. Our practices are contemplative (reflective) charismatic (Spirit-driven), conversational, and informative. The times we share together are intentional, intimate, and a mix between modern and traditional. We want to be a place in which love and honor are lived out, where humility is central, and where hospitality is woven into the threads of our community. There is room at the table. When we gather together. River Corner Church gathers weekly on Sunday mornings at 10:00 AM to worship and experience God, study the scriptures, journey through life together, and partner with the Holy Spirit. We meet in a simple worship meeting house at 524 River Corner Road in Conestoga, Pennsylvania. You are welcome as you are, just be yourself. There are other times that we hold small groups, events, and more. Our Pastoral Leader. As the pastor of River Corner Church, Jeff McLain leads our church community and helps others to think differently about Jesus, life, and everything in-between. Jeff also serves as the Director of Pastoral Ministries at Water Street Mission, where he works with those facing homelessness and poverty. Jeff, Katie, and their three wander-filled daughters look to lead quiet lives. Committed to lifelong learning, Jeff is currently pursuing a Doctor of Ministry at Kairos University and completing a Master of Business Administration with a focus on Executive Leadership at City Vision University. These academic pursuits complement the two masters he completed earlier at Fuller Seminary. Jeff has a passion for baseball, boardwalks, beaches, bays, and books, but above all, his greatest joy lies in spending time with his family and guiding our church community on our journey of faith together. Learn more about us at www.rivercornerchurch.com. Send us Fan Mail Support the show