It’s a blessing that this country has ordained a holiday centered on giving thanks. In an era when we are too easily drawn to fear and anxiety, taking stock of what has been given us is soul medicine. Here’s a three-part guide for this holiday.
First: Be mindful of the gifts you have.
Psalm 95:1-2
Come, let’s sing out loud to the Lord!
Let’s raise a joyful shout to the rock of our salvation!
Let’s come before him with thanks!
Let’s shout songs of joy to him!
Take time and name before God:
- The people, past and present, who have enriched your life.
- The amazing things your body does.
- The necessities for life surrounding you.
Second: Take an inventory of the magical things the Creator has done and is doing.
Psalm 95:3-5
The Lord is a great God,
the great king over all other gods.
The earth’s depths are in his hands;
the mountain heights belong to him;
the sea, which he made, is his
along with the dry ground,
which his own hands formed.
Take a step outside, stop, and look down. What plant or bug do you see?
Then, look around. What bird or animal do you notice?
Look up. What is in the sky?
Close your eyes. What does your skin feel? Your nose smell?
Third: Worship.
Psalm 95:6-7
Come, let’s worship and bow down!
Let’s kneel before the Lord, our maker!
He is our God,
and we are the people of his pasture,
the sheep in his hands.
How do you respond to this Creator who has loved and cared for you since before you were born?
- What prayer do you pray?
- What song do you sing?
- Who are the people you will hug today?