Thanksgiving has come and gone. We had a few days at home with our beautiful daughter and got the house decorated for Christmas. Following tradition, we went to my mom's for lunch and ate dinner wtih my husband's mother. It was nice to be home, sleep late, and take care of things that needed to be done. Even though the Christmas lights are up, it's still November, so I want to think about giving thanks.
Jehovah. Messiah. That's the name of my God! This morning at church we sang that song. We learned it last week, and this week I soaked it in. My greatest blessing is that I can say those words with confidence. Thanks to my cousin who approached me almost 30 years ago about the sad things she saw in me. When she asked me why I was living the way I was, I simply said, "I'm not sure there really is a God." She didn't react in shock. She did not condemn me. She simply looked at me and said, "I am going to be praying for you." Thanks to those prayers, today I can say that Jehovah is my God! I am so blesed to have my precious family. My husband is always supportive and quick to take care of me. He works hard to provide a warm and safe home. He is focused on serving God. I couldn't ask for a better man to spend my life with.
Then there is our daughter. I tell people often that God amazed me with her. She is devoted to her Lord and seeks to live her life for Him. Her love for people is pure, and she gives all she has to give.
I am so thankful for the wonderful group of ladies in my Sunday morning class. The support and encouragement they give me melts my heart. These are women who are serving God and stepping out to do things for Him. I enter their presence often feeling inadequate and out-of-place. I leave them always feeling loved and encouraged. They allow me to follow the path God has laid before me and they constantly remind me of how wonderful He is.
There are so MANY things to praise God for, so I am going make my list. I hope that it inspires you to appreciate and thank God for your blessings. Here goes: home, my new pillow, sitting and enjoying the Christmas lights, laughing with friends, hearing how my mom spends her day, random texts from Caitlin, seeing grateful faces, my job, the way Jack gets so excited to see us, living where I can experience four seasons, missionary friends around the world, new friends in Haiti, Kokou and his family, excitement of a little girl at the mall, the Great physician, my back porch, herbal tea, Jeep rides, the aroma of homemade soup on a cold and rainy night, medicine, a new house for my mother-in-law, growing friendships, Mexican food and Johnny, family heritage, Christmas cards, looking forward to coconut cake at Christmas, a reliable vehicle, owning a Bible without fear.....
I could go on and on. Maybe the list was varied enough that it encourages your thoughts. I have taken so much for granted. My trips to Haiti remind me daily of the things I enjoy as routine of life. Dear friend, please take a few minutes to reflect on what God has given you. When you make your list I hope you include the gift Jesus gave you on the cross.
Vicki
