THE CROSSING WEEKLY – THANKSGIVING EDITION
In 1978, Henry Smith wrote a simple hymn called “Give Thanks With a Grateful Heart.” The lyrics say “give thanks with a grateful heart, give thanks to the Holy One; give thanks because he’s given Jesus Christ, his son.”
With the holidays and Thanksgiving upon us, it is important to remember all God has done for us and shout thanks and praise and give Him the glory. God has been doing so much in our midst that we wanted to take a special moment to stop, and encourage everyone to notice what He has done in this season of ripening harvest and preparation.
Throughout the Bible, verses give light to the attitude of thanksgiving for all that God has done and will continue to do. Here are just a few:
“Let them give thanks to the Lord for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind, for he satisfies the thirsty and filled the hungry with good things.” -Psalm 107:8-9
“Praise the Lord. Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, his love endures forever.” -Psalm 106:1
“Thanks be to God, who always leads us as captives in Christ’s triumphal procession and uses us to spread the aroma of the knowledge of him everywhere.” -2 Corinthians 2:14
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” -Philippians 4:6-7
As you sit down to eat and fellowship with family and friends, let’s be reminded of the big and small ways in which God has shown up for us as a body this year. In a season of deep growth and expansion, it is vital to remember the first fruits. The journey from where we were to where we are now is one to be celebrated as we continue to sow into the vision of what comes next.
What are you grateful for?
Happy Thanksgiving!