The Joy We Find in Gratitude

. . . and when they had called in the apostles, they beat them and charged them not to speak in the name of Jesus, and let them go. Then they left the presence of the council, rejoicing that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.—Acts 5:40b-41

For years, Thanksgiving week became the time when I would focus on (more…)

Serve Fruit at Your Holiday Gathering

But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law.—Galatians 5:22-23

Our gatherings with friends and loved ones may look a little different this year—possibly smaller, possibly more sparse. Your guest list may be limited by COVID concerns. Your menu may be limited by availability or budget. But no (more…)

The 365 Days of Thanksgiving

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.—2 Thessalonians 5:16-18

One of my biggest regrets in life is that I didn’t journal more. My excuse has been that, as a writer, I write enough every single day, thank you very much, and I didn’t need to add more writing to my (more…)

The Words Christians Throw Like Confetti

A single day brought good news from several friends: A young mom seems to be beating the odds against a virulent cancer; a family friend finally landed a new job; an elderly loved one made it through a difficult surgery. Each time I caught myself responding, “God is good!” As I typed the words one last time, I realized I, like (more…)

Giving Thanks in All Circumstances

Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. – 1 Thessalonians 5:18

We think of Thanksgiving as a time to give thanks for our blessings, but sometimes the holidays don’t bring to mind thoughts of abundance. They instead remind us of loss and want.

The empty chair that just a year ago was filled. That familiar (more…)