Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
Paul, in a series of exhortations, urges us to give thanks in all circumstances. This week, here in the United States, we will be celebrating Thanksgiving. We will gather around the table with family and friends. The table will be heaped with the golden brown turkey straight from the oven, that homemade corn bread dressing that mom makes, scrumptious mashed potatoes, giblet gravy that ties it all together, vibrant green beans, colorful yellow squash, tart yet sweet cranberry sauce, refreshing ambrosia, and handcrafted pies. As we gather together getting a glimpse and feasting on a foretaste of the heavenly banquet, we will pause and express our gratitude. We will offer words of what we are thankful for. And, although there are always reasons to express gratitude, this call to give thanks in all circumstances can be quite challenging, at times.
Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when loved ones have recently died or are dying. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when Hospice has been called in. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you face Thanksgiving on a feeding tube. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you are hungry and know not from whence your next meal comes. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you are without a home or shelter. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you feel utterly alone. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you struggle financially. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you or a loved one has health issues. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when you are reeling from the aftermath of natural disasters. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when war and violence are all around you. Giving thanks in all circumstances is much harder when your prayers seem to be unanswered or perpetually on hold.
Yet through it all, if we pause. If we acknowledge, life truly is full of blessings, and there is always reason to give thanks to God, who loves us and wants what is best for us.
No matter what you are going through, this season, may you experience the abiding love and presence of God. May you know the with us nature of Immanuel, who came that we might have abundant life and still walks with us every step of the way. You are not alone no matter what you are going through. Today, I give thanks for family and friends who come along side in life, for food that satiates my hunger and beverages that quench my thirst, for shelter over my head, for my loving husband, for the joy my two dogs bring, for the very air that I breathe, for the many wondrous opportunities in my life, for those who suffer no more, for those who work for God’s kingdom, for those who feed the hungry and work to end poverty, for those who help to get clean water to every person in the world, for my vocation and creative gifts, and most of all for God who loves me as I am and graciously transforms me into who God is calling me to become. What are you thankful for? How can you give thanks in all circumstances?