On Being Thankful

Next week we will be celebrating Thanksgiving. It is one of my favorite holidays because I gather with family. I enjoy spending the time with family that I only get to see once or twice per year. We get to catch up, laugh, and generally have a good time. We also share a huge meal, so that makes our time together even better.

Lately, I've been watching people's facebook statuses about the things they are thankful for. While I haven't joined in on changing my status, I have been reflecting on the things I am thankful for. These include:

1. My family: I am supported by such a loving family that truly cares for my well-being and lifts me up in my ministry.

2. My friends: Most of my friends are spread out through the US but we are able to stay in touch. I am thankful for all of them, but especially those I am closest to. Those that share common beliefs and we lift each other up in prayer.

3. My youth: I have the greatest group of youth ever. I am thankful for each one of them: their individuality, their personalities, their gifts, and their love.

4. My church: I am thankful also for the wonderful body of Christ found at Good Shepherd. The people are encouraging and accepting, loving and missional.

5. My Faith: My faith continues to be one of the greatest things I am thankful for. Without it I would not be where I am today.


Notice that not one thing I listed was a material possession. As I have reflected about what I am thankful for, not once did I first reflect on a material thing. While I am thankful for the necessities such as clothing, food, a roof over my head, running water, a vehicle to drive, and so on, I am most thankful for the people, the relationships, and my faith in God.

The Bible is full of scripture that reminds us to be thankful. One such passage is:

Know that the Lord is God.
It is he that made us, and we are his;
we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.

⁴Enter his gates with thanksgiving,
and his courts with praise.
Give thanks to him, bless his name.

⁵For the Lord is good;
his steadfast love endures for ever,
and his faithfulness to all generations.

Psalm 100:3-5 (NRSV)

Remember during this time of thanksgiving to give God the credit. What are you thankful for and how do you show God your thanks? God is Good and the love God gives will last forever, so give thanks in all you do now and forever, amen.