.

Of course we would not want to forget the countless awards for every kind of sport. There is the most valuable player award, the rookie of the year award, the best pitcher award and the list is endless.

These awards are very important to the people who receive them. They work years to reach the top of their respective profession. For many these awards are the crowning moment of their life, the final reward for all of their hard work.

Most people who receive awards do their work in front of hundreds of thousands of people. They are far from unsung heroes; as a matter of fact they are celebrities. Our society has an obsession with celebrities and most celebrities have an obsession with being noticed.

Today I would like to hand out a few awards of my own. Awards to people who go unnoticed by the world we live in, and really they like it that way. Without them our world would be a lot worse off.

*MVP (Most Valuable Person) award goes to those moms and dads who daily influence their children by loving, caring and sacrificing for them. Your desire to bring up your children in the love and admonition of the Lord gives hope to our future.

*MPA (Most Patient Award) Goes to those who take their time daily with young children or with adults who are struggling to make grades or learn a trade. These people consist of parents, grandparents, and teachers for all different age groups. That you take the time to teach and to believe in people makes all the difference in the world. You will never know the difference to those you have come in contact with.

*MPA (Most Persistent Award) This award goes to all of you who have made it another year with your spouse. You have over the years had chances to leave but did not, you have had to learn to forgive and to put someone else’s needs in front of your own and you have done it with a willing heart. In a world where half of all marriages don’t make it you are making it. Do not rest on your laurels, do the work it takes to make sure you win this award again next year.

*UHA (Unsung Hero Award) This award goes to those who do all the little things that go unnoticed. You visit the sick and the lonely. You go places where others do not want to go like nursing homes and hospitals. You are a friend to the outcast and down and out. You send cards to people to brighten there day. You give money without asking for it in return or letting anyone know you gave it. Without you the world would be a lonely place.

Tomorrow as we gather together to give thanks, let us remember those who are Christ like each and every day, those who brighten our days and make life enjoyable. Let us thank Christ for loving us so much he sent them our way.

Scripture: Ephesians 1:16, “I have not stopped giving thanks for you, remembering you in my prayers.” (simple enough)

Prayer: Dear Lord, put within our hearts a thankful spirit. One that reminds us of all the wonderful people you have sent our way. One that is thankful for your most gracious gift of your Son and everlasting life with Him. In the Name of Christ, Amen.