The Month of Giving Thanks

On the fourth Thursday of November, American families gather together to celebrate the many blessings they have received.

James 1:17 reminds us that every good and perfect gift is from above. As Christians, we know that our ultimate thanksgiving shouldn’t be directed towards other people or coincidence but towards our Father above.

I haven’t been in the US for Thanksgiving in around ten years. Moreover, my immediate family has been scattered across the world and cannot join together for the big dinner. But we are intentional about embracing the spirit of Thanksgiving during the month of November.

Each day we share a “new mercy” (Lamentations 3:22-23), something that God did that day to remind us of His steadfast love and abundant blessings.

One of the biggest takeaways from the month of giving thanks for new mercies was seeing how God knows exactly what I need and provides it every day. I’m not talking about food or wifi or a good night’s sleep.

I’m talking about encouragement from a friend the day before it seems like everything else goes wrong. I’m talking about the energy and patience to thrive throughout the craziest of days even when short on sleep. I’m talking about seeing God work in the lives of the students I have the blessing to work with.

Noticing new mercies every day helps me set my mind on things above (Colossians 3:2).

There is so much that goes wrong and that I could complain about. But I want to remember the joy that comes from noticing daily mercies, so that I may continue the habit of thanksgiving, even after the holiday season is over. I encourage you to do the same and help your children do so as well.

Here are some photos of my family at our respective Thanksgiving celebrations around the world. We have so much to be thankful for!

Blessings,

Rachel Feather, Chaplain