To be Thankful...

 
Thanksgiving is done- except for all the leftovers. Now on to preparing the house for all the Christmas decorations to come out! I couldn't help but think about how much of my "holiday merriment" revolves around pointless traditions. Don't freak out! I know- I still love it all, the turkey, the stuffing, the Christmas tree and lights, the advent wreath, the stockings and caroling. I wouldn't get rid of a single thing. I just wonder if the reason we all can get into the "Christmas Spirit" and still act like little pigs is because we are missing out on THE Spirit...Our God, dwelt with us.

I am determined to slow down and soak it up this year, not just the good feelings and seasonal festivities. But I am asking God to shine in a brighter, new way and open my eyes to more of Him, and much less of me. I get so bent out of shape over things I have little control over, when in reality; my time, energy and treasures would be much better spent fussing over the things I CAN impact for God's glory.

Our "Thanks" Jar

We have spent the month writing something we are thankful for down on a little leaf and putting it in a jar, just taking a moment to pause and praise God for all He does in our lives every day. As we shared Thanksgiving Dinner together this last week, I think we each felt just how grateful we should be. Life gets topsy turvy sometimes, Obama is still president, we might be short on cash and long on worries, the changes this next year feel overwhelming - but there is one thing that will always stay the same:
"...God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us." Romans 5:5b

Our list was long this Thanksgiving, but the highlights were:
Family
Another day of breath and life
Two new members to our little team
More than what we need
Love and Forgiveness

God bless you, dear friend. May He fill your cup, and allow it to run over with His Spirit and His joy this Christmas.