“Giving Thanks at Thanksgiving” Nov '24
Thanksgiving is a time of year when we try to remember to give thanks. Not to state the obvious, but giving thanks is in the name of the holiday: Thanksgiving! We try to show our appreciation for what we have. This can include our relationships and the people in our lives. This can also include the physical things in our lives like our home, food, finances, toys, and so many other things. We can also give thanks for the intangible things in our lives, like our stress level, mental health, and outlook on life. In one of the beautiful Psalms/poems in the Bible, we read “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for He is good, for His steadfast love endures forever!” (Psalm 107:1). No matter what we give thanks for at Thanksgiving, there is one thing which will never change: God’s love. He loves us, He is there for us, and He is the source of everything good in life. Now that is something to give thanks for!
“Meaning in Life”
Think of how you would finish this sentence: “I am .” We introduce ourselves and identify as a lot of things. We may finish this sentence by describing our job, school, family, favorite sports team, favorite hobby, or many other things. This is normal and shows how we have things which are important to us. As we all look for meaning and purpose in life, this shapes how we fill in this blank. Whatever we put in this blank is a part of what gives us meaning. It describes who we are and what we value. As we identify ourselves and look for meaning in life, so many things will change and let us down. Thankfully, there is one thing which will never change or disappoint: Jesus! God’s Word tells us “Whoever has the Son has life; whoever does not have the Son of God does not have life.” (1 John 5:12) No matter what changes in life, Jesus is always there to save us, forgive us, be there for us, and give our lives meaning!