This month is a time when people are typically more expressive in their thankfulness for others. While we should always be expressing a heart of thanksgiving, it’s wonderful to live in a country that, while it often encourages discontent and greed, also dedicates a day to being thankful for what we have.
I know that many people grow up in families where there seems to be little to be thankful for; however, I hope that we can all recognize blessings, even amid serious struggles. First Thessalonians 5:18 encourages us to “give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Below, several of our staff share some of the things they are thankful for in their families. Take this month (and every month) to reflect on your own blessings and express your thankfulness to those in your family.
We’re Thankful For…
I’ve had a lot to be thankful for this past year. God has blessed our family tremendously. I have a great immediate and Christian family. We are all healthy and happy. What more could you ask for!
––Nathan Parks
I am so thankful that I have parents who love me enough to tell me no. So many parents don’t care what their children do and don’t take the time to correct them. I have parents and grandparents who make rules but still had time to play with me as a child and who support me now in everything I do. I am blessed with a sister and a brother who were always there to keep me company as a child and who are here now for me to talk to whenever I need them. I am also grateful that we can get along enough to go on family vacations and grow even closer to each other.
––Rachel Conley
I’m thankful that my family loves being together, whether it’s doing a fun family activity, cleaning the house to loud music, or going on road trips. We enjoy being in each other’s presence, and we don’t need an occasion! I’m also thankful that my family respects one another’s need for time alone. If one of us desires a break from everyone else, the other family members understand and happily work together to give the person in need time to themselves. Since we’re all able to refresh ourselves separately, we are happier and able to fully appreciate our time spent together, playing and working with each other, and growing for God.
––Davonne Parks
Some of my fondest memories around Thanksgiving time is the day after Thanksgiving. While most people are out shopping in the crowded malls and shopping centers, my family was at home decorating for Christmas. We always ate red, green, and silver Hershey’s Kisses and other Christmas candy, turned on the holiday music, and decorated the tree and house for the Christmas season. It was an enjoyable time that drew us closer as a family. I’m thankful for those memories.
––Carol Gartman
From my childhood, I am thankful that my mom stayed at home with me and my two brothers. We were blessed to be financially able for her to do this. I loved the feel of her presence at home––cleaning, canning, or gardening. I have so many fond memories of us just spending time as a family at home. Now that I have my own family, I am thankful for a husband who loves his family more than his job. I am so thankful for two healthy boys who are growing and learning every day, while so many children are suffering from disability and illness. Most of all, I’m thankful to be a part of God’s family.
––Lisa Grimenstein
“Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe.” (Heb. 12:28)
(Compiled by Lisa Grimenstein)
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