In just one week our South Carolina family will arrive to celebrate Thanksgiving with us. One of their sons is now living in Illinois, so he will drive to get here in time for the festivities as well. The Thanksgiving feast will happen on Friday. Instead of going shopping we will be on a different schedule than most of the country. Our youngest daughter will host the party and she and her family will prepare the feast. We will be missing our son and his lady since it is hunting season in Wisconsin and tradition has always placed him there for the holiday. There’s really nothing better than a shot in the arm filled with family. As I think of all that’s happened within just the last year, there is so much to be thankful for. Each morning brings this simple prayer to our lips – “Thank you, Jesus, for another day.”

Somehow the holidays exemplify almost every emotion on the spectrum. We’re happy, sad, grateful, excited, touched, deeply moved and so much more. Many who suffer from depression, find the holidays a time of remorse, grief or self-pity. Being grateful for a life filled with sorrow would seem not to be an option. Many suicides occur during this time of supposed joy and gratitude. There is pressure to put on a great spread – to serve amazing food – to extend the budget to the max buying special food and drink. There are the gifts to purchase and wondering how much more our credit cards will stretch. It is a formula for depression when you become overwhelmed by it all.

God wants us to be grateful for His gifts. He showers us with so many every day. Taking time to thank Him should not be a chore or a special day. It’s something we do because we truly are thankful for our blessings. God doesn’t need our gratitude. He’s God! But think of all that He has given you today and every day. I’m not talking about material things, but things that truly matter. For us, that simple prayer says it all. “Thank you, Jesus, for another day.”

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NIV