Thanksgiving: Time To Reflect

By Em Fergusson

All around us, the news has not been good lately: a slowing economy, a rising mortgage crisis, many job losses and companies asking for financial bailouts. This Thanksgiving, each individual will need to ask themselves some serious questions. What does life truly mean? What is my divine, God-given purpose, as a Christian and individual placed on this earth? Ask yourself, what are you thankful for this season? What has God done in your life to create a lasting happiness in your soul? As Christians, we often get caught up in the every day and forget the simple things in life.

This holiday is an opportunity for us all to reflect on our lives and make sure we have a rock solid relationship with God. When you wake up on Thanksgiving morning, let the turkey simmer as you thank God for His goodness, for allowing you to see one more day and giving you yet another opportunity to praise and worship Him.

If you plan to spend Thanksgiving with your family this year, create lasting memories by gathering around the table and praying for needy families that have been affected by economic woes, tragedy or sickness. Be thankful for the things in your life, even if you have experienced hardships lately. There is nothing more powerful than prayer and the strength derived from that inner faith, in trusting that God will pull you through.

Reflection is more than just sitting and thinking back on your life. To reflect means to take inventory by searching your heart and soul. Have you been to church lately? When was the last time you spoke to God? Has your life been a testimony and encouragement to others? Our actions, words and deeds not only resonate with God as He looks down upon us, they resonate in front of our children, our family members, our friends and the homeless man down the street. Let God be seen around the table this Thanksgiving by embracing His love into your hearts.

Remember to tell your loved ones how much you value their relationship this Thanksgiving. Happiness and gratitude walk hand in hand. Show your appreciation towards your pastor, your friends, your co-workers and God will bless you. Colossians 3:12 reads: "Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience." Let those guiding Christian principles show through you this holiday season.