Choosing to See Through the Lens of Thankfulness

When we take the time to look, we usually find that blessings flow freely.

As Americans prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving, we are living through historic levels of inflation and economic uncertainty. Last year, we were still living with the multi-year threat of a seemingly never-ending international pandemic. Some people were still afraid to travel. Social media was still overrun with arguments about wearing masks or not and I won’t even mention the ongoing political arguments.

Many families chose not to gather and break bread over fear or anger or both.

Fear and anger are great dividers.

We all hoped this year would be better. While the pandemic threat has subsided for most, flu is running rampant and now, so is inflation.

The country is just as divided on how to fix the economy as we were on how to handle the pandemic.

At street level, there’s a lot to complain about and the situation looks rather hopeless, yet those of us who hold dual citizenship with heaven and earth are called to take a different view. We are called to remember that life on earth will always be a mix of calm and chaos and if we spend our days longing for better ones, then we will always miss the many blessings that are daily rained down upon us.

We are called to remember that we are travelers here and our King is not the least bit concerned about the economy or the flu.

With Thanksgiving less than a week away, people of faith, have the opportunity to show a dark world what Christian living is supposed to look like. We can live and act in such a way that draws others to Jesus. That includes our social media presence.

The Bible says, “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.” Romans 12:18

We can choose to share our blessings with others both physically and virtually. We can choose to share Jesus.

We are called to love one another. “Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers over a multitude of sins.” 1 Peter 4:8

While fear and anger are great dividers, the fruit of the Holy Spirit fills us with powerful tools of reconciliation like peace, patience, joy, love kindness, goodness, gentleness and self-control.

Jesus’ last supper with His disciples reminds me of the importance of breaking bread together. Thanksgiving reminds me that despite what the world tells us, there is always much to be thankful for. Sometimes I need reminding. Perhaps you do too.

Have an awesome day!

Wendy 🙂