Keep Giving Thanks
Just what are you thankful for today? We don’t have to stop being grateful just because Thanksgiving Day was yesterday. We can be thankful every day. We each probably have a lengthy list that includes things like: family, friends, food on the table (are you a turkey and dressing family? Or maybe your tradition is baked ham with candied sweet potatoes), a roof overhead, money in the bank, and the freedoms we enjoy.
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” Paul challenges us to give thanks in all circumstances. And as we celebrate Thanksgiving this week, I am reminded of a song from Songs of Praise Volume I, which talks about giving thanks. The opening verse of the song (“Let Us Give Thanks” by Brian Howard) is still etched in my brain from over 40 years ago.
Let us give thanks that our names are written
Let us give thanks that our names are written
Written in the book of life and inscribed upon his palms
When I ponder Paul’s admonition and the words of the above 70s praise song, I find my “Why I am thankful today?” list begins to expand. Of course I am thankful for the material blessings that I have in my life, but there is so much more. I know that God is with me no matter where I go, no matter what the situation and He has provided for me not only in this world, but in the life to come as well.
For your gift to yourself today, give yourself the gift of a 15-20 minute timeout and meditate on the entirety of Psalm 139, reflecting on the God who knows you inside and out: “O Lord, you have searched me and known me…” (v.1)
So HAPPY THANKSGIVING! For yesterday, today and every day—and God’s blessings to you and all of your loved ones.
