Thanksgiving Is…

Thanksgiving is typically filled with lots of family commotion. I have a large family, so Thanksgiving is usually an abundance of food, laughter and small conversations to check in with each one. We are spread out across several rooms. We are too large to be in one room together. It is a form of organized chaos. I love it, and look forward to seeing everyone. 

This year was different. We gathered with a small subset of my family. We all fit around one table. There were long conversations and still lots of laughter. It was intimate. Relationships were strengthened. It was different, and I loved it, too. 

Thanksgiving is about so much more than being thankful for this country. For me, it is about the blessings of God, the gift of family, and the opportunity to share it with others. It’s also a time to remember those who are missing from the table. Thanksgiving is a reminder to pray, as Paul did in Ephesians, for those I love.

That’s why, when I heard of the solid trust you have in the Master Jesus and your outpouring of love to all the followers of Jesus, I couldn’t stop thanking God for you—every time I prayed, I’d think of you and give thanks. But I do more than thank. I ask—ask the God of our Master, Jesus Christ, the God of glory—to make you intelligent and discerning in knowing him personally, your eyes focused and clear, so that you can see exactly what it is he is calling you to do, grasp the immensity of this glorious way of life he has for his followers, oh, the utter extravagance of his work in us who trust him—endless energy, boundless strength! (Ephesians 1:15-19 MSG).

The truth, Thanksgiving is more than a day of celebration. It is a way of life. Scripture tells us to give thanks in all circumstances. There are many things that happen in life that are difficult to be thankful for, but love, mercy and grace from God are always present. I am asking myself, “What can I do each day to live a life of thanksgiving?” It changes my attitude. It brings peace to my heart. It reminds me of what really matters. 

How are you living a life of thanksgiving? Is it more than one day a year? Share your story here and breath life and bring hope to others.

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