| It has been said, “It is impossible to be simultaneously thankful and critical at the same time.” In this season of Thanksgiving, what if we all focused on the belief that the power of giving thanks could change the way we live our lives? Dan Britton writes, “With a grateful heart, much can be accomplished. Let the power of thanksgiving change the way we relate to others?” Billy Graham spoke about The 1st Thanksgiving. “The Pilgrims were facing many trials. During that first long winter, seven times as many graves were made for the dead as homes were made for the living yet they gave thanks. Their example reminds us that thanksgiving depends not on what we have but on being grateful for what we have. Not only are we called to “give thanks in all circumstances” (1 Thessalonians 5:18); we are also told to “give thanks for everything to God the Father” (Ephesians 5:20) A grateful heart must be an open heart. It is the only way the light of love can get in to dispel the darkness of discouragement and resentment that can grow in all of us. We can’t wait for others. It has to start with each of us.  We would never see the beauty of a full moon if not for it reflecting the light of the sun.  So, as we gather around the table, let’s all try to open our hearts; Not just to the Lord but to each other. As we fill our hearts with God’s love, like the moon with the sun, let’s encourage each other (Colossians 2:2) to “change the word from a noun into a verb. It does not mean we have to agree but it does mean we can treat each other with respect. Known as the Golden Rule, Matthew 7:12 encourages us to treat others with the same kindness, fairness, and respect that we desire for ourselves.” A friend on Facebook posted “If you live in thankfulness and gratitude, it will always take you to a better than living in resentment and anger” The late Tim Keller observed “It’s one thing to be grateful. It’s another to give thanks. Gratitude is what you feel. Thanksgiving is what you do.” For all Christ has done, for all he is doing, and for all he will do. Let’s all choose to open our hearts today!Thanks for finding a reading my blog. If you haven’t subscribed, I would love to have you join those already on the email list. Please also feel free to reach out via email at [email protected] |