Growing up, our family had a tradition that before saying grace over our Thanksgiving feast, each person had to present at least one thing for which they were personally grateful. I am grateful for my job said one family member who had been unemployed for a period of time. I am grateful for my health said another who had just recovered from a serious illness. I am grateful for a roof over my head, said my cousin who had just purchased her first home. I am grateful for my family, I am grateful for this food, I am grateful for our freedom, I am grateful that we are all here together and on it went and at the end we said the Lord’s prayer.
It is sad that we truly don’t appreciate the gifts of life until we become at risk of losing them or do lose them.
I pray for the people who have been devastated by Hurricane Sandy especially those who have lost loved ones, lost their homes and for so many who are still without power today. I pray for the people in the midst of the wars in the middle east, where bombs explode destroying homes, taking lives and making families homeless leaving them to live in fear. I also pray for all who are fighting illness or injury, who mourn the loss of loved ones, who are homeless and for people who find themselves alone and lonely. I pray for the members of our the military and especially for the many who are away from their families during the holiday.
Colossians 3:15 NLT 15 And let the peace that comes from Christ rule in your hearts. For as members of one body you are called to live in peace. And always be thankful.
This week, I challenge you to write a personal gratitude list. Take a long hard look around you and write down 10 things that you are truly and passionately grateful for and read your list at the Thanksgiving table. It doesn’t matter if you are eating a TV dinner alone or at a large family gathering. Read your list aloud with thankfulness.
I am truly grateful to have the opportunity to write this blog and I want to say thank you to all who read it each week, who make comments and for your continued love, support and prayers.
May God Bless You and Happy Thanksgiving!
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