A Day of Thanksgiving!

Walking outside wrapped up in my coat, scarf, beret and gloves, the crisp air hits my face. Overcast sky, wind blowing with the fallen leaves chasing each other down the street, I am thankful for today. 

Official holiday for being thankful. I am grateful for so much. I know today, most of America is taking time with family and friends as they sit around the table and they are pausing to thank the Lord for their country, family and friends.

It is sad our country needs a holiday to stop and reflect. We should be pausing daily and thanking God for what we have. But I am thankful we have today.

As I walk down the street and the smell of wood-burning fireplaces fills the sky, I wonder what was that first Thanksgiving in 1621 in Plymouth County like.  Who was there? What delicious foods were suiting on the handmade table? There were no grocery or convenience stores to drive to get items they had forgotten.  I am sure they had been hunting for days for a deer. Also, what crops had been harvested? Corn, potatoes, squash….,

As I will eat dinner in a warm home and have a feast of food waiting to be eaten…turkey, ham, dressing, potatoes, bread, green beans and pecan pie and more, I will stop and thank the Lord for family, friends, food, shelter, jobs and so much more.

Today is that special day to reflect and “count your many blessings and name them one by one…”

Psalms 9:1-2 - “I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart, I will count all of your wonderful deeds. I will be glad and exalt in you; I will sing praise to your name, O Most High.”

                                                                         

Give Thanks!

As we begin a new week, I count my many blessings. With Thanksgiving only a few days from now, I have so much to be thankful for.  I get to enjoy another day of life.

Yesterday, I was reminded of this privilege when my husband and I were enjoying breakfast at a restaurant in Savannah.  We were in town to attend a friend’s wedding and to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

A couple sitting next to our table started speaking to us. In the conversation, my husband acknowledged our thirty-eight years of marriage. The young man spoke up, “not to be personal, but how have you reached thirty-eight years. My wife and I were married for nine years and have been divorced for several years due to my PTSD. We are wanting to get back together, but we are not for sure.”

Kenny and I knew instantly this moment was not by chance. It was God-ordained. We talked about how marriage is work and it isn’t easy. Our faith is the center of our relationship.

The couple lived in the area and we recommended them to find a Christian counselor and to not give up.

We had finished eating. Kenny and I moved to their table. I held the young woman’s hand and prayed for them. Asking the Lord for wisdom and direction as they seeked counseling. Praying for healing for them and their marriage. With tears in both of theirs eyes, they thanked us. We exchanged phone numbers. I am praying for them as they deal with their challenges. Prayer is powerful!

Walking out of the restaurant, Kenny and I were touched by this couple. We realized how we take each other for granted. Each day is a blessing and we need to acknowledge those around us and for what we have.

Thank you Lord for Kenny and our marriage!

This Thanksgiving take the time to thank your spouse for being there and for continuing to work on your relationship! Life isn’t easy, but we have a lot to be thankful for.

1Thessalonians 5:18 - “Thank God in everything, no matter what the circumstances may be, be thankful and give thanks."