Did We Miss Thanksgiving?
You may not realize it, but tomorrow is Thanksgiving. You may feel this way too, but I feel like Thanksgiving has been forgotten because everything around us is already geared towards Christmas. Rather, the consumerism monstrosity that our culture has turned Christmas into. I think Black Friday began around Halloween this year.
Now, I am not trying to sound like Mr. Scrooge or the Grinch. Our apartment is already decorated with tons of twinkle lights and our tensile tree. We have already begun watching Christmas movies, cuddled up in our Christmas PJs, sipping hot chocolate. I love all of it!
BUT… before we completely dive into the Christmas season, let’s take a moment to give a wink to Thanksgiving. Giving thanks is not always easy, especially as the hustle and bustle of the holiday season quickly engulfs us all.
So, let’s do something radically countercultural and PAUSE for a few moments as we slow down and reflect on what we are thankful for… to focus on what we do have, rather than on what we hope to get on Christmas morning.
I invite you to take a few breaths in and out. As your breath slows down and your mind settles, meditate on the following scripture passages,
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus" (1 Thessalonians 5:16–18)
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever. (Psalm 107:1)
And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. (Colossians 3:17)
Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. (Psalm 100:4)
Now I invite you to pray,
“Father, thank you for being you and for loving me just as I am. Continue to create in me a heart full of gratitude and thankfulness. As the world tells me I need more things, more experiences, more, more, more… help my heart and mind remember that I have all I need in Jesus. In the days to come, may I enjoy good food, good company, and good gifts to your glory. May all these things, the people, and the experiences remind me of your goodness in my life. Amen.”
Now, go and enjoy Thanksgiving, praising God for his goodness and faithfulness!
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