Dear Peace members and friends,
Happy Thanksgiving to all of you! I hope this holiday is a blessed one for you;
even in the midst of whatever challenges you are facing.
As I write that, I think of Paul’s words: “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18).”
My response? “Really, Paul? Really?” Every day there are reasons not to feel grateful and not to give thanks. Terrible, distressing, painful, and awful things
are happening happen all the time. I don’t feel thankful. I watch the news, I get afraid for what comes next, when a friend is diagnosed with cancer, or when a loved one dies, the emotions of thanks escape us.
The Apostle Paul calls us toward a better way. He says, “give thanks in all circumstances.” He does not say, “give thanks for all circumstances.” Gratitude never calls us to give thanks for anything that is evil or unjust, never for violence, or suffering. Do not be grateful for these things. The word translated “in” means “in, with, within, throughout.”
So, Paul is saying that in the here and now; in the past and into the future; in happiness, in despair; in all things, in all times, in all situations; in all things, with all things, through all things, we can live in gratitude to God for God’s love and promises are sure; for you, for me, for the world.
Today, I encourage you to give thanks to God for life and one another. Live in gratitude.
Thank you, Peace…..and Happy Thanksgiving!
Mark