Giving Thanks

It should not be a surprise to anyone that tomorrow is Thanksgiving. It’s always celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November and this year it is as late in the month as it can be. Turkey will be served at some tables while at others, different meats and vegetarian dishes will be offered. Small or large groups of people will gather for food, fellowship and conversation. Some will celebrate alone.

Regardless of how many participate in the celebration, Thanksgiving Day provides another opportunity to reflect on things in one’s life for which to be grateful.

My personal list would fill more than one page. But the top four have been these for many years:

My relationship with God
My wife and family
My friends
My health

The love and support I receive from God and from the people in my life are daily blessings for which I am so thankful. And, I express my gratitude every time I pray.

The following poem by Jack Zavada is, I believe, an appropriate reflection for tomorrow.

TODAY AND EVERYDAY

Lord, too often our prayers

Are filled with impatience over what we want

Instead of gratitude for what we already have.

Remind us today and in the coming year

What is truly important.

Remind us to give thanks for family and friends.

Remind us to be grateful for the work you have given us.

Remind us to appreciate our many material blessings.

Most of all, remind us today and every day

To give thanks for your precious Son Jesus,