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Growing up, Thanksgiving was about food and time off from school.

I would imagine you were a lot like me. But one thing is for sure: we were grateful for it!

Let’s give ourselves a break: we were kids. But now, we’re older, and Thanksgiving means more.

As followers of Jesus, Thanksgiving can be a day of worship and celebration. If we’re intentional, Thanksgiving could actually change our attitude throughout the entire year.

Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the LORD is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.

Psalm 100:4-5
New International Version

When was the last time you wrote a list of things you’re thankful for? To put it in the words of the old song, perhaps it’s time to “Count Your Blessings.”

We can enter the Lord’s gates whenever we want because the Holy Spirit is always with us. We can give Him praise at any time.

And now Thanksgiving is tomorrow. What are we going to do with it? Can it be more this year?

Here are some ideas to give thanks to the Lord, tell of His goodness, and proclaim His faithfulness:

  • Have a gratitude pumpkin or gratitude gourd. Have everyone around you write down things on the pumpkin or gourd they are thankful for and read some throughout the day.
  • Before you feast, have everyone say one thing they’re thankful for. This is a great exercise for all of us–children included. And don’t give children a dirty look if they’re thankful for “food and time off of school.” If they’re grateful, that’s the point!
  • Tell your story of God’s grace to your family. Alternately, have each family member tell theirs.
  • Write a note to each person at your Thanksgiving meal and put it in their place. Tell them one thing you’re grateful for about them.

I’m sure you can come up with more, but the point is to be thankful. Instead of a few minutes, let’s try to make most of the day about gratitude to the Lord and the gift of “others” the Lord has given us.

From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

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Sunday, we’ll begin our journey through Advent on our way to Christmas. We’re in my favorite time of year, and I’m so thankful I get to share that with you!