Thanksgiving, Part II – People
Thanksgiving is almost upon us. Many of us will be busy in the days and hours leading up to our families gathering for a hearty meal. But then, afterwards, hopefully we will have time to relax and enjoy one another’s company — whether chatting around the table or cleaning up together in the kitchen. In Part I, I wrote about perspective, how it’s important to keep a godly perspective, to not compare ourselves to others or be drawn in by messages telling us what we “need.”
Let’s turn our attention today to people–specifically, people we are thankful for. We can begin with the person of the Holy Spirit, the third person of the trinity, often overlooked but integral to our daily life as we walk with Jesus. The Holy Spirit opened our eyes to see, understand, and accept the Good News of Jesus. I am thankful for the Holy Spirit.
“And when He had said this, He breathed on them and *said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” John 20:22 NASB
Parents. My parents have both died, but every day I am thankful for my parents. They nurtured in me a love for people of all nationalities and colors, a love for books and education, and a love for God’s creation. They loved me unconditionally. I am thankful for my parents.
“HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER (which is the first commandment with a promise),” Ephesians 6:2 NASB
Siblings. My sister and brother have both contributed to my life in innumerable ways–adding to my joys, halving my sorrows. They are great companions and traveling buddies. I am thankful for my siblings.
Husband. A young man in our church recently told me, “Katie, the best thing that ever happened to you was becoming a Christian; and the second best thing was marrying Pastor Bill!” I am so thankful for my husband. He has been there for me during difficult times, taken over when I couldn’t deal with one of our sons, brought a voice of reason and balance when I get carried away with plans and projects, and most of all, loved me. He loves me when I’m sweet, dressed up, happy, and he loves me when I’m sick, grouchy, overextended, or stressed out. I am thankful for my husband.
“The heart of her husband trusts in her, And he will have no lack of gain.” Proverbs 31:11 NASB
Sons. I am thankful for my three sons. God has blessed us with three amazing young men. Sometimes they make me proud, and other times disappoint, but they are never boring! God has entrusted us with raising three young men, and the raising “ain’t over yet!” I am thankful for my sons.
“Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.” Psalms 127:3 NASB
Friends. Where would I be without my friends? Whether it is my group of six who have been together for about 30 years, or newer friends I have made in the last 10-20 years, my friends support me, challenge me, listen to me, and love me. I am thankful for my friends.
Church family. We spent 15 years in one church at which my husband pastored, and we are approaching 15 years in our second church. God has brought so many people into our lives, some for a short time, and others for decades. I am thankful for our church families.
Katie, I enjoyed reading your list of who you are thankful for. God has placed many people in our lives to be a blessing to us-The Holy Spirit being the most cherished. Happy Thanksgiving!
God is so good to us. I have enjoyed sharing in your life lessons during the last few months. Hang in there with the boys. We saw answers with our two even today at the table. They are 44 and 41. God will help you.
I am thankful for you Katie; your faith, your continued support of your friends and family is contagious.
I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving day.
Thank you so much, friends. I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving.