This is our second Thanksgiving under Covid-19 protocol. For many, there doesn't seem to be much to be thankful for, but I am thankful for so much.
I'm thankful that I'm able to celebrate Thanksgiving together with family this year.
I'm thankful for technology, so that I'll be able to FaceTime with family that are too far away to celebrate in person.
I'm thankful for so many new friends I've made over the past year or so through the Northend Church Food Bank.
I'm thankful for good friends and neighbours.
I'm thankful for new connections with old friends.
I'm thankful that many friends from Samos are out of the "jungle", have found new homes, and seem to be doing well.
I'm thankful for people who have encouraged me along the winding paths of my life.
- Basically, I'm thankful for people.
It's true, there's so much fear and divisiveness among people these days. I understand the well thought out concerns that people on both sides of the issues have, and I'm grateful when I see people taking the time to listen to each other instead of pouncing on each other. It's important that we speak softly, listen intently, and hear what one another have to say.
In his first letter to the Thessalonians, Paul reminds the church to always rejoice, even in adversary, pray unceasingly, and be thankful. Jesus tells us to love and pray for our enemies. It's clear what's expected. It's much harder to put it into motion.
On this Thanksgiving Day, let's fan into flame, and not extinguish, the Spirit of God - the Spirit of love - within us. Let's allow ourselves the grace to have differing opinions. Let's break bread together, and rejoice always - together.
Let's count our blessings, remember all that we do have, and share with those who have less.
May the love of God fill your heart,
May His joy shine upon you and your family,
May the grace of Jesus fill your soul,
And the blessings of the Spirit flow through you.
Amen.
