Giving Thanks

Written by Patty Lowe

This article is courtesy of Journey Magazine

Living far from relatives, it became a tradition of our family to deliver Meals on Wheels every Thanksgiving Day. It gave the regular drivers an opportunity to be with their families, and it gave our family an opportunity to be with others.

As we knocked on the door of each home, we were never quite sure what to expect. Some of the special people were bed or wheelchair bound; others were in homes that were dark and musty with the cold November wind seeping in around the cracks of the doors and windows. Most wanted more than a meal; they desired conversation—the simple presence of the ones who came. So, we set the dinner before them, complete with flowers, said a blessing and then we sat a bit to visit.

Time spent with those folks taught us much about prayers of thanksgiving. They had so little—poor health and habitat, few possessions, very little companionship or security—and yet their prayers were rich and joy-filled. They simply gave thanks for God and for His continual loving care. In a few days, we will again be setting aside a special day to celebrate Thanksgiving. Magazine advertisements entice us to “begin preparing now!” TV commercials suggest that we plan more, buy more, decorate more, cook more, travel more until sometimes we find ourselves more focused on preparing for the festivities than on giving thanks to God.

In this busy season, take time to go for a walk. Enjoy the fragrance of autumn, listen to the breeze teasing dry leaves and see the beauty of the earth as it prepares for its resting time of winter. Again, be reminded of how God lavishes us with His love every day. Be amazed!

Alter your Thanksgiving traditions by finding a way to reach out to others who need companionship. Look in their faces and see the image of God. Be awed!

Whatever our circumstances, when we express our gratitude to God, the Giver of “every good and perfect gift” (James 1:17), we realize how very blessed we are. Be simply thankful!

Patty Lowe writes from her home between the river and the woods near Guntersville, Alabama.

Share your thoughts with other readers:  Post Comments   Rate this Article