Holidays
THANKSGIVING
Colossians 3:15
Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.
Thanksgiving is the American tradition to gather with family, fill up on turkey, stuffing and pumpkin pie, watch a football game (or two), take a nap (always blaming it on the tryptophan), then wake up in hope that everyone has left to go home or you can escape with your doggie bag without the perverted relative’s overly friendly kiss goodbye.
This year, not only was I able to avoid the kiss but I was most thankful this year than years past. Why? Well, not only because my parents gave me a place to live (again) when I didn’t deserve it, but because a family that loves regardless of my many mistakes and flaws is one to be thankful for. A family that forgives and loves is one blessed by God.
Upon writing, I had a disrupted heart. I was ready to smear the Thanksgiving holiday tradition in America for over indulging on the things of the world and ignoring our God who makes it possible for us to gather peacefully, eat heartily, and nap uninterrupted. However, spending the day watching my mother cook (in her pajamas and usual joyfulness) made me realize that I have much to be thankful for. So, why is it that we are inclined to grumble and complain instead of appreciate and sing songs of thanksgiving? Why is our nature conditioned to be more negative than positive? Why did I want to write about all the things Thanksgiving isn’t, rather than what it can be?
To be thankful, one must remain and retain a positive attitude. When that attitude is replaced with pity, pessimistic thoughts, or self righteousness then a negative attitude is born and erases all thankfulness one may have had. To be thankful, we must display an attitude of humbleness, meekness, mercy, forgiveness and love. Unfortunately, there are times when even those that share in the Spirit of God do not display these attributes and hurt others. Our opportunity to be a light has just been shattered and pushes those that we want closer father away.
When the peace of Christ is not ruling in our hearts is when we hurt and thus hurt others. But for those who share in the Spirit we are:
God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, and must be clothed with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. (Colossians 3:12)
Even after receiving the gift of life, these traits are not built without effort. Every day is a battle and every day we need to strengthen and build upon these attributes. Every day we must ask Jesus to make us more like him and make a conscious effort to follow through.
So, this Thanksgiving I’ve learned to simply be thankful. Thankful that God chose me, for my beautiful children, for my unconditionally loving parents and family. If we don’t know how to be thankful then we will never know how to give thanks.
Psalm 118:1
Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.
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