Well the turkey's in the oven, the chocolate chip cheesecake is looking lovely. . . let the drooling begin.
This morning I am burdened for some families I know that are really struggling this Thanksgiving. While putzing around in the kitchen (one of my favorite things to do) I've been thinking over a lot of things.
Last Thanksgiving Day I was making dinner for one of the dearest people in the world to me. With a terminal cancer diagnosis, she had months to live. While stirring gravy and what not I wondered how we could bear it, how we would ever laugh again, how would life go on. She was laughing and happy in the living room, visiting with those she loved, but nobody could ignore the sadness at the edges of the conversations.
And here we are already, a year later. She is with the Lord. What better could we wish for someone that we love? That is REAL life, and she is FILLED with Thanksgiving. And today, we will be FILLED with turkey, and mashed potatoes, and gratitude for God's grace and comfort and peace that passes all understanding. With hearts that are changed forever we are still able to laugh, and praise God.
So, this really isn't a downer post, and I wanted to share this with those who are facing uncertainty this Thanksgiving, and may be afraid. We are more resilient and resourceful that we might think, but more importantly, God is better than we know. Here's a poem that just about everyone has probably heard. I'm not sure of the origin; it was supposedly written by an unknown Confederate soldier. It's a timely reminder. In everything . . . Give Thanks!
I asked God for strength, that I might achieve.
I was made weak, that I might learn to humbly obey...
I asked for health, that I might do greater things.
I was given infirmity, that I might do better things...
I asked for riches, that I might be happy.
I was given poverty, that I might be wise...
I asked for power, that I might have the praise of men.
I was given weakness, that I might feel the need of God...
I asked for all things, that I might enjoy life.
I was given life, that I might enjoy all things...
I got nothing I asked for - but everything I had hoped for.
Almost despite myself, my unspoken prayers were answered.
I am, among men, most richly blessed!
3 comments:
Lovely post, my friend. It also reminds me of that old Garth Brooks song, Unanswered Prayers. Many hugs. Hope you and yours had a lovvvvvely day. :-)
PS You're Enchanting! Come by and pick up your AWARD. :-) Hugs, Mel
http://momnmore.blogspot.com/2008/11/youre-enchanting-award.html
I was thinking similar thoughts this Thanksgiving. As we gathered at my mother's, I was simply amazed at us all being together, at the healing God has done over the years. At times I never would have thought it possible.
What a mighty God we serve.
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