What am I grateful for this Thanksgiving? It’s simple – that I know, really know and experience God in all of His power and glory in my life.
Approximately twenty years ago I sat around the table with seven other women from different denominations and walks of life at a Walk to Emmaus retreat. My heart grew heavier and heavier over the weekend as I realized that each one of these women didn’t know the Word of God and consequently didn’t know my friend Jesus. I ached for them. I couldn’t imagine living life without a living, dynamic relationship with God.
As I sat there I thought about how knowing God– His Words – His heart had made all the difference in my life. Given me security when parents were gone for a month to find a new job and home. Given me resilience when the days were dark with the confusing betrayal of a father who’s supposed to love not hurt. Held me up during repeated rejection in the awkward teen years. I hid under his wings during depression and stood in the high tower of Christ when I just couldn’t take anymore. His Words were the anchor of my soul. His grace my enabling power to keep on going. The Holy Spirit my protection, comfort and guide. Christ’s love enfolded me bringing healing to the ache of my soul. His acceptance ignited life and hope.
Yes – knowing Jesus was the greatest thing in all the world – just the greatest and everybody’s got to know who Jesus is --- my Savior, deliverer, constant companion, lover of my soul, hope rising, health and healing, mentor, guide, encourager, comfort and yes – my best friend.
So this Thanksgiving I give thanks for all the people who made it possible for me to know my Jesus. My grandmothers who prayed, my mother who took me to church and lived for Jesus, my teachers and pastors and so many other people. I thank God that He has revealed Himself to us and He is a personal God.
But, my heart is still heavy because there are so many who come to church but really don’t know God or His Word. They aren’t experiencing Him, as God desires. I hope as an act of Thanksgiving you will open your whole heart and life to experiencing God more fully.
Graham Kendrick wrote a song that says it best:
All I once held dear, built my life upon,
All this world reveres and wars to own,
All I once thought gain I have counted loss,
Spent and worthless now compared to this.
Knowing You, Jesus, knowing you.
There is no greater thing.
You're my all, You're the best, You're my joy,
My righteousness; and I love You, Lord.
For those of us who really know him, let’s give back this Thanksgiving by sharing our life with Christ with others in tangible way. Thanksgiving is not just an attitude it’s also an action. Get out there and do acts of Thanksgiving.
Gratefully -- Angela
