giving thanks ~

a beautiful day, which is in it’s most simplest form ~ truly ~  and only ~ a day for giving thanks to God.  for everything.

originally, thanksgiving was a religious holiday. it has morphed into making idols of our families in many respects. we have forgotten far too often to whom it is that gives us these blessings of family.  

we have forgotten the blessings of living under The Lord’s providence and guidance, and it would seem that the overwhelming american response to “what does Thanksgiving mean” is only to give thanks for family and food… i hear it on tv; in every show, in every commercial, in our culture, and in our own statements to each other… every minute.  how sad… to forget. 

yes, it is very good to give thanks for our families, homes, for bounties of food… friends and more.  but that is not the real reason for thanksgiving day.  originally this day was a holy day; {a day set apart for thankfulness; which is also part of the word meaning of “holiday”},  a holy day set apart specifically celebrated by the pilgrims, to give thanks TO GOD, and for God seeing them through horrendous, and very difficult circumstances, for a life blessed under His care;  despite the death of loved ones,  hunger, fears, tears, and challenges of living in a new land. 

and yet… our loving God never forgot, and He never forsook them. He remained faithful. and He still does.

sadly, at least here in America, while God is largely  forgotten by many, and left out of the story taught to our children in so many places… He is still the only story of a truly thankful heart.  of life to the fullest.  of grace.  mercy.  and His justice.  in His sovereign wisdom, we live and trust.

Brian and I are so thankful for His loving kindnesses, His faithfulness, and most of all, for the gift of eternal life through the most beautiful sacrifice of His Son for us on the Cross.  

This Story … this one life… is only the beginning for Christians who’s hearts belong to Him… in whom heart’s have said the “divine” yes.  

while it saddens me that america doesn’t seem to recognize Him, or that we were a country based on Christian values, {more and more}… that is also the story of God. He knows, and He knows the whole story, the beginning… and the end. 

We give thanks, and praise Him for his never-ending love and mercy, grace and forgiveness, and life everlasting.  our living redeemer, the rock upon which we build our foundation of faith.  

may you be ever mindful, and ever thankful, noticing you are walking on holy ground every where you go.  may you know  that a Mighty God is still on the throne, He knows and sees all; He never misses a moment of your life.  may you know the break through of the freedom of looking to the One who knows all, is all, and is the end-all. Be thankful that He knows… your story!  may He fill you up, pour you out as a blessing to others.  may you drink from the living water that never runs dry…. thankful that God Himself will fill you with holy confidence, and humble dependence so that others will taste and see… and know He is God.  Our Loving One, and 
in His Loving Hands,  Amen.

Blessings upon your life, your family, and your day of giving Thanks to Him.
xo
leslie