November 27

My family has had some good laughs this week as we have discussed what our ideal Thanksgiving meal would be. Turns out that we like a lot of the traditional side dishes, but not turkey. We have made it all kinds of ways—different brines, roasting, smoking—but no one except my mom wants it.

I was so intrigued by these conversations with my kids that I brought it up at Bible study yesterday. And you know what I found out? Not one of the ladies was planning a traditional meal!

What we need to remember is that Thanksgiving isn’t about the turkey, stuffing and green bean casserole. Despite what amazing marketing will tell you, the dishes served around the table don’t actually matter.

What matters is that we are thankful in all circumstances, we know that every good and perfect gift is from above, and that God will supply our needs according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. By the word of God and prayer, every food is made holy and can be received with thanksgiving.

So, enjoy your turkey if that is what you have today. Be thankful for chili or hamburgers or spaghetti. Enjoy what the Lord has provided and lift up your thanks to Him for He is a good and gracious Father.

(and don’t worry about my mom. I’ll make sure she has her turkey.)

Prayer for today:

Heavenly Father, thank you for supplying my every need. You have heard my cries for help and have comforted me. You give me strength when caregiving makes me weak. Help me stay focused on you and not seek the world around me this holiday season. In Jesus name I pray, Amen.