I once asked a wise man how to cultivate joy, because I perceived I was lacking in that department. He said, “The ground of joy is gratitude.” That made sense – and it gave me something to do, to cultivate gratitude and see what kind of joy grew from that, like a garden of wildflowers.
As followers of Christ, we are invited to give thanks in all circumstances – in plenty and in want, in health and in sickness, at peace or not, employed or not. That is my thanksgiving prayer for you, that you find it easy to be thankful today – and if it’s challenging, that you will encounter God in the practice.
If you miss somebody today, give thanks for them and their life in yours.
If you're annoyed with someone today - imagine missing them, and give thanks.
If you lack something today, give thanks for what is before you and ahead.
Give thanks in all circumstances. There's a good chance God is giving thanks for you...
A happy and healthy and blessed Thanksgiving to you - wherever and with whomever you spend it.
And here's a feasting clip, should you not have had enough of tables laden with food - a clip from Babette's Feast, in which a beautiful, perfect meal reconciles long-time enemies and restores lost hopes. Just like that meal we have in church on Sundays...
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