ThanksLiving

They cry, “Peace, peace, when there is no peace.” Those words from Jeremiah, the Old Testament prophet could be echoed by our world today. Many must wonder, Is there such a thing as peace anymore?  

“…My peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.” Those were Jesus’ gentle words to his disciples—and to us--in John 14:27.  Even back in the Old Testament, God promised in Jeremiah 29:17, “I have a good plan for you, of hope and a future.”

Thanksgiving is nearly upon us and I am blessed to live in a sheltered part of the world that doesn’t have to deal directly with terrorism and war. However, peace isn’t necessarily an external entity. The Norman Rockwell idea of Thanksgiving might picture family or friends sharing hospitality, with the general idea of overeating--and then it’s time to watch the football game. That’s all great but what if we continued to express our gratitude beyond Thanksgiving.

I love it that so many on FaceBook have joined in the idea of daily listing things they are thankful for. After this Thanksgiving season when all the turkey and pumpkin pie has been put away (either in the refrigerator or the tummy), get a notebook to keep by your bed or with your Quiet Time materials and jot down at least one thing you are thankful for each day.

This practice of thanksliving will be a step in the right direction when we look around at our chaotic world, or even within ourselves, and wonder where on earth our peace might be found.

Our Peace is right here, right beside us. He said He would never leave us.

That’s hope that brings peace. That’s really something to be thankful for.