As families gather this Thanksgiving, it’s worth remembering that forgiveness is the powerful variable that helps families grow together. We all need forgiveness, and in families, we need to forgive each other and ourselves. If we inspire respect and compassion for each other, differences will seem more minor and the tensions will be passing, insignificant irritations.
We will seek the long-term wholeness of the family knowing that short-term concerns will strengthen us. My family, as mixed and blended as it can get, brings a challenge and joy to my life that I would not change for the world, even on the worst days. I am a baptized child of God, received as a member of the body of Christ, and worker in the whole household of God.
This is adapted from “Blended Families,” a devotion found in Living from the Heart of God: A Journal for Life’s Stages, published by Women of the ELCA in 2007. Today is Thanksgiving Day. We remember Clement, Bishop of Rome, who died around 100; and Miguel Agustín Pro, martyr, who died in 1927.
Do you enjoy these free Daily Grace messages? If so, donate now to further the ministry.
reply
retweet
favorite