Thankful for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day is one of my most favorite holidays. It's not just the yummy food, (though the scale may tell a different story in a couple of weeks!), but I am glad that we still have a day set aside in our country that originally was to be a day of prayer and thanksgiving to God. And while the commercialization of every holiday is a reality in our country, Christians can get past that and enjoy a day of remembering God's great blessings. Certainly we want to do that every day!

With that said, one thing in particular that I'm thankful for today is the comfort that Christ brings to the heart of the Christian. It really is true that this life is full of trouble. Over the last year many friends my age suffered devastating physical trials. Cancer and strokes and accidents strike when no one expects them. Then there are the overwhelming financial burdens that have come to families because of our ailing economy. Last spring there were 6 families in our Bible study that were facing a loss of employment. Various other trials, big and little, happen daily that overtake us and leave us feeling as if someone has just punched us in the stomach. Pain and anxiety are real, and we cannot escape them in this life.

But those who have put their trust in the Lord Jesus have a refuge from the troubles of this world. He says to all, "Come to Me, all who are weary and heavy-laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls." (Matthew 11:28,29) Circumstances often remain difficult, yet in the midst of it the Christian can cast all his care on the Lord and experience peace, comfort, and rest. No one else can set a troubled heart at ease. I have experienced this personally, and I am so thankful that the Lord cares for us in this way. He sits as the Sovereign of the universe, and He alone has the power to change our circumstances. At the same time, He is wise, and if He chooses to let our trial continue on, then we can trust that in His lovingkindness and wisdom, He is accomplishing His purposes in our lives by the best means possible. He can fill our hearts with hope, and help us to carry on, even rejoicing in Him. How kind and gracious is the Lord!