Give Thanks--For Everything? This month, we remember to give thanks. On Veteran’s Day, we give thanks for those who defended our freedoms that we give thanks for on Thanksgiving Day. At Christmas, we remember to thank God for freeing us from the bondage of sin through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. But, as we look across the landscape of America, we seem to face problems not seen by anyone since the Great Depression. Adding to that, our nation has drifted away from the character and moral understanding that helped our fathers and mothers endure those bleak years. So the question, “Should we give thanks for all of these things?” seems more relevant. It’s pretty easy to celebrate and rejoice when we go to a party, but when you’re facing the loss of a job, home, security, or a substantial loss of your savings, it isn’t quite so easy. There is an Indian proverb about a man who complained day after day about having to walk 5 miles to and from work. One day he stopped at a drink stand to get something cool to drink. As he complained to the vendor, the vendor looked up and said, “If I had feet, I would gladly exchange places with you.” As you read the story inside, you will see we can all give thanks that we don’t face violence or death just for meeting together. More than just looking at people less fortunate than us, giving thanks is about recognizing something much more important. It is about recognizing that no matter what state we find ourselves, God has our life in His hands. It is knowing that He is good, though nothing around us may seem that way. And finally, it is recognizing that even if we are in great misery, we have a Savior who is with us until the day He brings us home to Heaven. Now that is something to give thanks for. God bless and keep each of you.
