Thanksgiving is one of the best times of the year. It’s when we share God’s love with the ones we love. It’s a holiday of hope. It’s when we share our blessings with those who are less fortunate than we are.
Thanksgiving is also a holiday filled with mixed emotions for families like mine. Although years apart, our parents became ill over Thanksgiving and went to their heavenly home before Christmas. It can be a sad time of year for us but we know how blessed we were to have had parents who were always there for us.
I had just ended a telephone chat with my baby sister, Shena, who lives in Florida. The phone rang again almost immediately. She was calling to tell me one of our dad’s two surviving siblings was very ill and hospitalized. I received the details and expressed my love for her again, and ended the call.
I prayed for Uncle Leroy. I thought of our parents and other relatives who had become ill during this time of year and passed away before Christmas. I was determined to cast my cares on Him to release the spirit of depression that was trying to embrace me.
Speaking out loud, I began to proclaim the blessings of the Lord and give thanks to Him. Life in abundance isn’t easy or without challenges but it can be carefree when we give all our cares to Christ.
My brother George called this morning with the name and number of a potential client. I asked how Uncle Leroy was doing. When the doctors can stabilize him, he’ll be transferred to another hospital for better care and the surgery they are not equipped to perform. I shared with George what I had shared Shena, “I am just sick and tired of our kin-folk getting sick around Thanksgiving! I wish he can hold on until Christmas.” George laughed out loud and continuously. He said, “Avis, I was feeling and thinking the same thing but wasn’t bold enough to say it.” I reminded George that we could go boldly to the throne of Grace in our time of need. I also explained I asked God for His forgiveness, as I wasn’t trying to tell Him how to do His job. I am sure the Lord knew what I meant and the meditations of my heart.
George remarked, “I know, Avis. It’s a challenge sometimes to enjoy our wedding anniversary, our daughter and granddaughter’s birthday, and get into the holiday spirit.” I let him know I wouldn’t be home for Thanksgiving but will stay longer at Christmas. He said, “I understand but you know we’ll miss you. Do what you feel is best.”
George and I ended our call and I began to talk to God. I love our conversations. Assuring Him of my love for Him is what I felt compelled to talk about with Him. I have been trying to sort things out on my own. He told me how much He loves me and wanted to sort things out for me. He spoke to me about the tug-o-war I was having with Him. I would give Him my problems and take them back, trying to solve them myself and control the outcome. I relented, repented, and was uplifted spiritually.
“O give thanks unto the Lord for He is good, his mercy endureth forever.” Every day is a day of thanksgiving. It is good to come to the realization that our relationship with Him is not based on our feelings but what we know. I know my Redeemer lives! Through it all, we must give thanks.
A happy Thanksgiving holiday season to you and yours!
Copyright © 2008 by Avis Ward of GeoVi’s Home for Pregnant Teens
