Life is messy …

You’ve likely heard the story of the man who went in to see his physician.

“So let’s have it,” the patient said.

“The bad news is that you have only 24 hours to live,” the doctor stated somberly.

“I can’t imagine what could be worse than that!” exclaimed the patient.

The doctor replied, “I forgot to call you yesterday.”

Life is messy.

As we gather around the table on Thanksgiving Day, many will be feeling the messiness of life sharply.

With the messy economy, many have lost homes, savings, and jobs. Many will struggle to put together a meal for Thanksgiving Day. Some won’t have anything to eat. Others will be missing family and friends who couldn’t afford to travel. And still others will be missing family and friends who are no longer here.

Life is messy.

Yet, when we gather on Thanksgiving Day with those we love, and take stock of what blessings from God we do have, we always find something to be thankful for.

Life is never so messy that’s there’s no longer reason for gratitude. Deep, genuine gratitude.

In the harshest of moments, God is ever present, walking with us through our trials and troubles. And as we bow our heads tomorrow, we can remember a hope-provoking promise from our Savior …

“I have told you all this so that you may have peace in me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world,” John 16:33.

Let me encourage you to make your prayer around the dinner table tomorrow something more than offering thanks for the meal. The food can wait; take the time to offer a heart-felt, genuine giving of thanks that reflects the graciousness of God in your life and the lives of those at your table.

Whether life is messy for you right now, or God is blessing you abundantly, it’s my prayer that you will be moved anew with a fresh attitude of gratitude toward God and His lovingkindness toward you.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Scotty