Be Thankful

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, his love endures forever. Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for men, for he satisfies the thirsty and fills the hungry with good things" (Psalm 107: 1, 8-9). 

It is not uncommon to compile wish lists at Christmas and draw up a list of resolutions for New Year. But there is another list we often overlook, a Thanksgiving Day list of all for which we are thankful. Let me read a part of the record that several housewives compiled. They wrote that they were especially grateful: "For automatic dishwashers, because they make it possible for us to get out of the kitchen before the family comes back in for their after-dinner snacks". "For husbands who attack small repair jobs around the house because they usually make them big enough to call in the professionals". "For children who put away their things and clean up after themselves. They are such a joy you hate to see them go home to their own parents". "For teenagers because they give parents an opportunity to learn a second language". "For smoke alarms because they let you know when the turkey is done."

Now our list might not be the same as theirs, but I'm convinced that if we began to make a list, we would find that we have much more for which to be thankful than just our material possessions. Like you, I'm sure, my list would include the significant thing, life, health, family, friends, church, and this country we live in, despite all its flaws. But even more than that, I'm thankful for my salvation, our church family, and the mercy that God showers upon us each day. With Jesus, we have so much for which to celebrate on Thanksgiving. I want to quickly and just give you a list of some of the things we should be grateful for.

We should thank God for His character. We should thank God for His goodness and love. We should praise God for His faithfulness. We should thank God for His power and strength. But indeed, the greatest blessing to give thanks for this Thanksgiving Day is the gift of His grace. It is true that every day should be Thanksgiving Day. It is also true that we often forget to be grateful. So, while we are thinking about gratitude, let's do it right. Happy Thanksgiving. May God bless you always. 

Pastor Dimas