Growing up, we often celebrated the holidays with friends and family. I remember as a child how everyone would sigh when Grandma would begin the prayer before we ate our Thanksgiving meal. We all knew what was coming. She would ask each of us to tell what we were thankful for on that special day. You didn’t get the option to pass. You had to say something. As a Polish refugee, Grandma knew the importance of appreciating even the smallest thing, for there was usually some sacrifice that came first.
What are you thankful for this year? And no, you can’t pass! Think about the many things you have…a place to sleep in comfort, enough food on your table, clothes to keep you warm (or cool), the beauty of nature all around you, and most importantly, your family. Where does all this come from? Who provides? Yes, we work to earn money to buy many of those things. But who gives us the skill and wisdom to do the job? My answer to those questions is “GOD.” God provides.
This message is excerpted from “Look inside your cup” by Cathy Sell from the November 15, 2021, blog of the Women of the ELCA. Today we commemorate Justus Falckner, 1723; Jehu Jones, 1852 and William Passavant, 1894, all pastors in North America.
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