Thanksgiving 2021 is now a memory. I have to say, it was one of the least stressful family gatherings ever. Why? My expectations were primarily focused on my mindset and behavior, not others. Although I'm still not sure if I'll ever grow up, I have learned a thing or two. Multiple courses in the school of hard knocks have finally soaked in. Haha! Hard knocks do not soak in, they are pounded in. My Heavenly Father loves me too much and is serious about my lifelong transformation to withhold what I need. If a firm hand is needed, a firm hand it will be. 

Nate was able to join us this year and it was a sweet time. His desire to be with and share life with his family was a precious gift. Having geographical distances have made family gatherings less frequent and we are rarely able to have everyone in the same space at the same time. As a matter of fact, it has been 3 years since we have. 

A positive side of aging, (it's important to acknowledge these) is being more present and full of gratitude for what is, rather than what is not. This isn't a new thought, but simply knowing isn't enough. Embrace or let go? Thanksgiving was both. Embracing the family we were able to spend face to face time with and see the blessing. Letting go of what is not. Our grandchildren are over 2,000 miles away. It is not helpful or realistic to think all of us can be together. We were with family we love and who love us. 

I share all of this out of gratitude. My heart aches for all of you that were not able to be with the people you love. Covid has polarized us in ways we've not experienced before. There are health and safety precautions and rifts over what we are choosing to do or not to do in families everywhere. Family dynamics are unlike anything I've known before and our culture's definition does not line up with biblical truth and God's design. You may be willing to connect in spite of those differences or may not even have a say in the matter. 

Regardless of our circumstances, we are called to be grateful. In fact, Hebrews 13:15 ESV says, "Through him then let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that acknowledge his name." 

How are praise and gratitude a sacrifice? I know that I have expectations of others and when I do, those expectations are based on what I want. Uh huh. Me. Mine. I. When those expectations are not met, I have a choice. I can choose to focus on myself and how disappointed and disgruntled I am, or look at that individual or event through another lens. 

Looking through the eyes of love. Looking at the gifts in front of me. Getting the focus off of myself and looking up. Looking through the lens that focuses on what is important. God's truth brings beauty and depth and color into the moment. Turning away from myself is a sacrifice. Gratitude and  thanksgiving are a sacrifice of praise. 

How might you look through the lens of love? Is there a predicable pattern you can disrupt by changing your viewpoint?

To God be the glory. 

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