Pit and Rock

November 2025

The Bible teaches us to praise God for everything. For everything? Really everything? Yes—everything! Scripture reminds us to give thanks “in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18), “at all times and for everything” (Ephesians 5:20), and to come to God “always asking Him with a thankful heart” (Philippians 4:6, TEV). Gratitude is not meant to be a seasonal emotion. It is a way of life that shapes how we see God, ourselves, and the world around us.

Rock Formation in Cyprus. Photo by Pixabay

During one of Cyprus’ political crises, Sir Hugh Foot became the country’s governor. Amid the tension, he exchanged telegrams with his father, the Right Honorable Isaac Foot. His father’s message from England read: “Foot, Government House, Nicosia. See 2 Corinthians, chapter four, verses eight and nine. ‘Pit and Rock.’ Love from us all, Dad.” The reply came from Cyprus: “The Rt. Hon. Isaac Foot, Pencrebar, Callington, Cornwall. See Romans, chapter five, verses three and four. ‘Pit and Rock.’ We are all in fine form. Love, Mac.”

The phrase “Pit and Rock” became a family motto, drawn from Isaiah 51:1: “Look unto the rock whence ye were hewn, and to the hole of the pit whence ye are digged.” For the Foot family—a faithful and service-minded Methodist household—it was a simple reminder of their foundation in Christ. Whatever crisis they faced, they were never alone. All the resources of God were at their disposal.

We all have a “pit and rock” heritage. None of us started with perfection. We were once in the pit—stuck in sin, confusion, or despair—but God lifted us out and set our feet on solid rock. His grace transforms coal dust into diamonds and turns dry holes into wells of living water. When we look back at where we have come from, we can see the miracle of what God has done. That perspective fills us with gratitude and gives us courage for what lies ahead.

Thanksgiving provides the perfect opportunity to remember that journey. It is one of the few holidays that still points us toward gratitude rather than gain. Apart from helping turkey farmers, there is not much profit in Thanksgiving. It remains a day centered on giving thanks—counting blessings, celebrating family, and remembering God’s faithfulness.

As we gather around tables this season, many of us will think about our own “family tree.” We will remember people and moments that shaped us, and maybe even some hardships that strengthened us. Looking back helps us see just how far God has brought us. It reminds us that even when life felt like a pit, His grace was carving out something solid beneath our feet.

Like the Foot family, we can make “Pit and Rock” our own shorthand for faith and gratitude. From the common ground of God’s mercy, we can take stock of our lives and join generations past in praising the Lord who brought us from the pit to the rock—and beyond.

May this Thanksgiving season be filled with grace that steadies your heart and kindness that overflows from it. May we be people who remember where we came from—and who share that same grace and kindness with everyone we meet.

Grace and Kindness,

Pastor David