The Rev. Danny Arnold, senior minister at Park Memorial United Methodist Church, told the gathering at the Troy Exchange Club Prayer Breakfast Thursday morning that he has three reasons to be thankful.

He is thankful for his church, Christ’s forgiveness and a reason to live.

Although Thanksgiving is not a biblical holiday, it is perceived in that context because many of the biblical occasions were celebrations.

At this time of Thanksgiving, Arnold said his thoughts turn to those of thanks that cannot be separated from his faith.

“I am thankful for the church,” he said. “Churches of all shapes, sizes and varieties. I am thankful that people of God can come together in His Grace. The church is the family of God and there is plenty of room for all. And others see the love of God through the people of the church.”

Arnold said that he is thankful that, in Christ, he is forgiven.

“Through Jesus Christ I am forgiven for what I have done and for what I haven’t done,” he said. “His forgiveness is a continuing reality and I am always in need of forgiveness. I’m so glad to know that Christ’s forgiveness is available every day.”

And, it is in Christ Jesus, that Arnold said he has a reason to live.

“Jesus doesn’t mean for us to tiptoe through life until we come to the grave,” he said. “Our mission is in Christ and what better reason to live than for Jesus.”

In today’s world, it is often difficult not to bow to political correctness but those in attendance were encouraged not to yield to political correctness when it comes to their faith.

The Exchange Club is a group of men and women who work together to make their communities better places to live through Americanism, community service and youth activities.

The Club’s One Nation Under God program not only aims to increase appreciation for this country’s religious heritage but also seeks to remind Americans to always trust in God for guidance, protection and strength.

And, during this time of Thanksgiving, Arnold challenged all in attendance at the One Nation Under God Prayer Breakfast to remain thankful for a country where people can come together as a “family of God” to worship, to seek forgiveness and to accept God’s mercy and grace.