a Thanksgiving Prayer

Thanksgiving. It's a holiday that means lots of food, usually with family and friends, and maybe a football game on TV. Thanksgiving can be an attitude. We can remember to give thanks every day, not just once a year over a table groaning with food. I pray that we give thanks for a great meal, and remember those who do not have enough to eat most days. I pray that we are grateful for our homes and remember those without. And I pray that we, who are so richly blessed, help out the less fortunate by giving our money and our time to organizations devoted to their assistance. I pray also for those who serve and protect, in our military, in police and fire departments. And for those who must work on holidays, in hospitals and care facilities, and in restaurants and other businesses, and emergency personnel.

I pray for those who are grieving this holiday season. Many of us have lost loved ones this year. The first round of holidays after a loss is rough. And even if it's been many years, sometimes the ache of loss wells up unexpectedly. If you know someone who may be grieving or lonely, do give a call or send a note or message. Even a quick “hello” means a lot at these times.

I pray that each of us remembers how much we have every day. And that we know that even if our budget is tight, we are rich in love. We love because God first loved us. And God so loved the world--the ENTIRE world, all of creation--that God sent God's only Son, our Lord Jesus. It in His Name we pray, Amen.