Yes, Thankfulness

It's been a tough year for the world.  COVID19 has brought sickness, sadness, frustration, financial difficulties, loneliness, isolation, fear, and death.  Our world, in many ways has been turned upside down.  New norms, new ways of doing things....we are separated from loved ones, isolated in our homes.  Those who are working may be nervous and fearful.  As we try to maintain or go back to normalcy, a second wave is said to be coming.  

We've seen some good things too.  Families reconnecting, neighbors helping neighbors, providing for the needs of the elderly and those unable to go out for themselves. We've had time to slow down and appreciate the little things more, maybe even appreciate each other more too!   And we realize that even in all the fear, and the hardships, we have reason to be thankful.  

This week being Thanksgiving, I, like most find gratitude a little more in the forefront of my thoughts.  We've had a rough go of it, and it seems to be continuing....but God has never left the side of His children.  And each day is filled with a thousand small gifts to be thankful for.  It's so easy to lose sight of that when we suffer.  It's so easy to let fear and despair overwhelm our hearts.  I've done it many times.  But we are not called to this!  We have a Savior, a Redeemer who loves us, our eternity is secure!  I am so grateful for this truth.  

Last night I lay down on soft sheets, and this morning woke to a hot cup of coffee.  I sit here typing, able to connect with others around the globe.  The sun is shining brightly this morning, it makes the world I pass through sparkle.  My heart feels at peace and my mind is at rest. I have warm socks!   All these things I am grateful for.  Little things.  Things that fly by unnoticed way too often.  Oh Lord, that I would just open my eyes to the thousand little things each day!  

Lord, thank You for all things....good and bad.  Your Word tells us that  You cause "everything to work together for the good of those who love God and are called according to his purpose for them." (Romans 8:28)  Lord, open our hearts to see Your hand on each moment of our lives.  The joyful and the sorrowful.   Lord, help our hearts to follow Your Word and "Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." (1 Thessalonians 5:18)  We are truly the most blessed people on earth to be called your children.   Times have been hard and are still hard Father.  You know and see our suffering...carry us through.  This world is not an easy place.  Give us hearts to see through the eyes of thankfulness.  Lord, I pray for each of us, that You will strengthen us in all tribulations, provide in all circumstances, and comfort in all sadness.  Thank You that You never leave nor forsake us.  Thank You that we have the hope of heaven.  Thank You for being our God!  In Jesus, our wonderful Savior's Name.  Amen.  

Have a beautiful and blessed Thanksgiving!  And let's make everyday a thankful one!