I just returned from an errand: Several weeks ago the laser-cut key for my car broke off the key fob and because of the design the key was useless. I had to order a new one and it arrived last week. The dealer called several times reminding me to pick it up and I finally got it done today. Just picking it up was quite a process and the Parts Manager was very patient as we walked through a number of steps. He was gracious to walk out to my vehicle to make sure the new key worked and to program the buttons on the new fob.
I thanked him and said I hoped he would have a great Thanksgiving.
As I drove back to church I wondered how he would celebrate. Even more specifically, how will you celebrate Thanksgiving? Family? Food? Football? Shopping?
In the middle of the all the activity, let’s take time to remember that God poured out on us His mercy – forgiveness we could never earn and which none of us deserves. God gives us grace – endless rivers of goodness – which we see and experience in love, family, places to live, food, etc. God is the object of our thanks; our praise; our gratefulness.
The writer of Hebrews instructs us: “Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, 29for our “God is a consuming fire.”” (12:28-29). The phrase, “God is a consuming fire” is from Deuteronomy 4:23-24 and it almost sounds like a warning! Maybe it’s something we should take more seriously.
In the middle of family, food, football, and shopping make sure to set aside time to sincerely thank God for who He is; for His gift of Jesus Christ; for the presence of the Holy Spirit. God loves you with such passion that He is jealous when ignored. Be still. Be silent. Listen to Him.
Enjoy Thanksgiving.