Thanksgiving

In 1 Thessalonians 5 we are given three commands:

1. Rejoice always (v.16)
2. Pray without ceasing (I like the way Chuck Swindoll paraphrased this once "Pray with the frequency of a hacking cough") (v.17)
3. In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (v.18)

In one week, we celebrate the occasion of Thanksgiving and as I wrote in the previous entry, let us gain a different perspective on this day. So step away from the turkey, the mashed potatoes and stuffing, throw away the notion of this day (or weekend) of something that has to be endured and let us look at Thanksgiving from a different point of view.

• Have family that come over and annoy you? Be thankful that you have family. Remember all those who are alone this day and those who serve us overseas that wish they could be with family.
• Thinking that you may not have "enough"? Be thankful that you have. Remember those who do not have and have to go to an event (like the Raul Jimenez Thanksgiving here in San Antonio, or the Salvation Army) in order to even have something to eat.
• What about your home...you do have one, right? What about those who are homeless-we may not "publicize" them as much as we used to, but they're still there...
• Transportation that doesn't involve your own two legs?
• What about the fact that we have a day to celebrate by eating and drinking and being with other people (no matter how obnoxious and bratty they are)....in other countries having a day to give thanks, or having food would be something that they would be extremely thankful for? And the food that we are whining and complaining about having for "leftovers" would be a feast for them....

Have you bothered to thank God for what He HAS blessed you with?

Two years ago, I was spending Thanksgiving with JP tubes and a colostomy bag sticking out of me. Two years ago, I had to spend the better part of 2 1/2 months not being able to eat or drink because when my appendix blew, it spread the poisons throughout my midsection and that had to be cleaned out. Two years ago, my living quarters consisted of a hospital room. Two years ago, I couldn't go to the bathroom or take a shower by myself....

So if you don't think that I'm thankful to have a whole body, being able to eat, having a family and being at home, all the "little things" that we usually take for granted, you are sadly mistaken...

So instead of glibly "thanking" God for the "surplus" that He has given you, TRULY think about what you have been given beginning with the sacrifice Jesus made for us on the cross. Remember God was not obligated to give these things to us because we are Americans, or that we are better than anyone else (remember we are ALL sinners) but He CHOSE to give these things to us because we are His children and He loves us. Remember He could have chosen to give these blessings to another nation, another people....So be thankful and use this as a time to teach those who will be with you next Thursday to be thankful as well.