Give Thanks

Did you notice that the Halloween candy aisle turned to Christmas candy overnight? It always amazes me how early the Christmas displays appear in stores. I usually just ignore it. I know several people spent the weekend getting their Christmas decorations out and putting up their trees. 

I set out my Thanksgiving decorations. I like to spend the month of November in thanksgiving mode. I'm not opposed to decorating for Christmas because I love the beauty of red and green and sparkles but I have so much to be thankful for that it takes me all month to express it.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is admirable--if anything is excellent or praiseworthy--think about such things," (Philippians 4:6-8 NIV). 

Thanksgiving is late again this year so I expect many will have their Christmas trees up for Thanksgiving so they can enjoy them longer. Whatever you do for the end-of-the-year holidays, let's remember to give God our thanks in as many ways as possible.

I doubt if I'll see many turkeys on display in yards, though I know where to see real wild turkeys on lawns nearly every day here in Ankeny. A big blow-up gobbling turkey might be fun to see in someone's lawn!

Dear God, Thank you for this season of thanksgiving ahead of us. Help us remember to pause and give thanks to You for all that You do for us. We anticipate the season of the birth of Jesus, Your Son, and raise our hands in worship for this wonderful gift of Salvation. Lord, we know that all gifts come from You and we come to You in gratitude and praise. Show us Your mercy and grace, we pray, Amen.