St. Paul encourages us to engage in “always giving thanks to God the Father for everything, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20, NIV). This is a timely word around Thanksgiving, and a timely word in a world which poses considerable difficulties and challenges.
And yet. There is still so much in our lives for which to be thankful. Even in the midst of tragedy and loss, one often hears words of gratitude. Gratitude for the doctors who tried to save a spouse’s life. Gratitude for the love of others shown in times of need and distress. Gratitude for even a hint of reconciliation in a relationship thought to be beyond repair. Gratitude for the gift of life itself, with its mixed bag of joy and suffering.
Gratitude most naturally springs from an awareness that we have been given something we do not deserve or have not earned. For believers, then, the eternal wellspring of gratitude flows directly from the atoning cross of Christ. In other words, there is a beeline between Good Friday and Thanksgiving.
I can tell you, readers and friends, I am so thankful for each one of you! Thank you for taking time with me today. Let us pray:
We thank You, God our Father, for all Your gifts so freely bestowed upon us. For the beauty and wonder of Your creation, in earth and sky and sea. For all that is gracious in the lives of men and women, revealing the image of Christ. For our daily food and drink, our homes and families, and our friends. For minds to think, and hearts to love, and hands to serve. For health and strength to work and leisure to rest and play. For the brave and courageous, who are patient in suffering and faithful in adversity. Above all, we give You thanks for the great mercies and promises given to us in Christ Jesus our Lord. Amen. (A Litany of Thanksgiving – Book of Common Prayer, p. 837)
Ed. note: This entry appears under the heading “November 22” in Mockingbird’s newest publication, The Almost Daily Devotional, which is available for purchase in our store! If you have been scratching your head over what to give this Christmas, look no further than this smart, low-pressure, hardback devotional. To ensure your order arrives in time for Christmas, may we recommend ordering sooner rather than later?
