Connecting Point: Second Helpings

Thanksgiving: a break for many; a burden to many more. I admit to being old-fashioned in this and it will be a break for most of my household, except the cook. If only the country would go back to the time of rest around the holidays. Some go hungry and find themselves alone. Maybe it would be a good idea to find at least one person or another family who could benefit from our abundance. One can be generous through a simple invite to dinner or by surprising another family with a drop off meal. It seems to me that our family always has more than enough food, what about yours?

A very fitting character trait to consider not only during this time of year but every day is thankfulness. We are confronted with a choice; choosing to be thankful or wallowing in its opposite. I meditate:

Paul describes a time period like this to his protégé Timothy, “People will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, proud, abusive, (and) disobedient to their parents,” (2 Timothy 3:2-5). Certainly, all of these negative attributes are evidenced today. Don’t misunderstand me.

I’m convinced that thankfulness is the better choice, and the Bible settled it years ago, and that is good enough for millions of folks. “Be very careful, then, how you live—not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.” I quote from Ephesians chapter five. Did you catch that? God’s will for us is to be thankful in every situation.

I do understand that when life gives one lemons our inclination is to go negative; however, we are admonished by God to be thankful. Rarely can we control our circumstances, it’s our attitude that we must learn to keep in check. William Arthur Ward wisely said, “Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.” Bravo that.

So trim those turkeys, whip up those tasty mashed potatoes, whisk that homemade gravy and don’t forget the stuffing. My personal favorite, savor that pumpkin pie, extra whipped cream, please. More importantly, strive to be a person who is filled with thanksgiving. May Jesus Christ always be your

number one portion.