As we return to our Thanksgiving traditions this year, the ones we can practice despite Covid-19, I feel extremely grateful and it surprises me. Funny thing about trials; they can make us more appreciative. It’s as if the Lord changes our wide angle lens to a focusing lens so we see what we still have that is precious. We have serious heartbreak over this pandemic and lives that have been lost; we do. It’s tragic. Tragedy makes us seek relief and the best relief comes from God. Knowing He is in control, we can still thank Him for our blessings.
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV
I give thanks for family coming over today. I have told them to “come hungry.” My husband, and I have longed for this day. We will enjoy good food and just be together, six feet apart!
My daughter, Jessie, coming with her fiance, Evan, for this family holiday is a treasure. Our daughter, Kellie is bringing a couple special friends, for which we are thankful. Maggie cannot come until exams are over, so we will miss her but see her soon! This love and longing we feel for being with them is not unlike the love and longing God has for us and we have for Him. What we love, we will naturally long for. David is “coming hungry” to God.
My soul is consumed with longing for your rules at all times. Psalm 119:20 ESV
There is a longing for God’s spiritual food when we love Him:
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied. Matthew 5:6 ESV
Dear Father,
Thank You for loving us and adopting us into Your family. Thank You for spotlighting our blessings that we sometimes take for granted. Please be with our sisters and brothers that are fighting Covid. Draw near to their families and let them feel You hold their hands and comfort them. Give us opportunity to comfort them as well. You see the love and longing in our souls. Use us to love others with grace like You do. Keep us hungry and dependent on You. We love You! Amen
GROWwork:
1.In the book of Psalms, David is extremely thankful and hungers for God’s word. Read through a couple chapters and circle or write in your journal the words that He uses to express his longing for God. It is constant and strong!
Wherever you are and however you celebrate, or not, this year, may God bless you with His love and longing. You are in my prayers, brothers and sisters:)
Tina
Glory in the Morning 