Gratitude & Hope
9 How can we thank God enough for you in return for all the joy that we feel before our God because of you? 10 Night and day we pray most earnestly that we may see you face to face and restore whatever is lacking in your faith. 11 Now may our God and Father himself and our Lord Jesus direct our way to you. 12 And may the Lord make you increase and abound in love for one another and for all, just as we abound in love for you. 13 And may he so strengthen your hearts in holiness that you may be blameless before our God and Father at the coming of our Lord Jesus with all his saints. (1 Thessalonians 3:9-13)
As people of faith, gratitude is not just reserved for specific times of the year - it's a reality we strive to always live in despite our circumstances. Yet, as we celebrate Thanksgiving (in the U.S.) and transition into the season of Advent - a time of waiting and preparation for God's kingdom "on earth as it is in heaven" - we can be especially thankful. We continue to celebrate the new ways we have to stay connected regardless of distance. We rejoice that we can more safely gather physically this year than last. We hold in our hearts those who are not here with us, but whose lives leave an indelible imprint.
We also can embrace the opportunity to open our eyes and our hearts to those who feel alone or discarded. While many of us prepare to share bountiful meals surrounded by family - rather family of blood or of choice - we must remember that so many are without. Ours is a world filled with people longing to be loved, longing to belong. In gratitude for the One who loves us when we are unlovable, may we actively seek opportunities to give that love away, to plant seeds of hope that can mend broken hearts and light the path to wholeness. God's kingdom come, God's will be done - on earth as it is in heaven.
25 "There will be signs in the sun, the moon, and the stars, and on the earth distress among nations confused by the roaring of the sea and the waves. 26 People will faint from fear and foreboding of what is coming upon the world, for the powers of the heavens will be shaken. 27 Then they will see 'the Son of Man coming in a cloud' with power and great glory. 28 Now when these things begin to take place, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near." (Luke 21:25-28)
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