As we approach the end of November and the beginning of the ‘holy days’ season, many cultures around the world are engaging in celebrations of gratitude and giving thanks for the blessings in their lives. This year, with the current situation, our celebrations may look a little different than in past years. However, I want to assure you that it is a glorious time for you and I to be alive right here, right now.
Here’s the thing. Just because it’s different doesn’t mean we don’t have an endless supply of things to be thankful for. Whatever it is that is unfolding in your life at this moment is happening for a reason. Everything that is taking place, what is perceived as good or ‘unfavorable’ is happening right on time and here for our awakening. Life is always cycling, it’s always moving. There will always be a peak and valley. No matter where we find ourselves in the cycle of life, it is a lesson or a blessing.
Today, enthusiastically leap into gratitude for no other reason than that you are alive! Celebrate your life as an instrument and expression of God. All around us, there are divine surprises of God manifesting the grace of life, the tenderness of God, and His mercy. This causes our hearts to be drawn into thanksgiving and praise for what has been given to us.
Gratitude is a way of life. Paul said in 1 Thessalonians 5:18, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” When you wake up in the morning, let your first thought be one of thanksgiving for being blessed with another day to live and walk in the love of God. As you go through the day, see God through all of the good gifts being freely given to you. James 1:17 says, “ Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.”
Let us always be thankful for the miracle of knowing God our Father whose good pleasure it is to give you the Kingdom. “It is good to give thanks to the Lord, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High” (Ps 92:1). Have a great Thanksgiving!