My Thanksgiving Prayer

In a year of so much turmoil and pain both globally and in my own life I still find a grateful heart.  Despite the loss of my father, and a close friend of my step-son, and the pain of watching so many others suffer from the disease of cancer and other illnesses I am grateful for having them in my life.  I am a better person for knowing them and to each of them I owe much gratitude and because of them I also owe the obligation to be grateful for all of the blessings in my life.

My life is truly blessed.  I have a wife who supports me in my work, challenges me to be my best in all I do, and loves me despite my shortcomings.  I have children who have all found a measure of success in their lives.  Each of them is blessed with special gifts and it is a privilege to watch them discover and use those gifts to further their lives and the lives of others.  I have a mom who would give the world for the happiness of her children and grandchildren.  She is the true measure of caring and compassion and serves as an example of both to her family.  My siblings are all healthy and happy with busy lives of their own I miss having them close.  Their children have all proven to be blessings to their parents and their extended family, adding richness and texture to our genealogy. 

Beyond my immediate family is an extended family of relatives and in-laws for which I am also thankful.  Again, they are scattered geographically but remain in my heart always. In my mother-in-law I find a person of deep faith and a gracious nature. My prayer, for all my family, is God will abide with each of them and bless them richly with his love.

In an unsettled world I am grateful for my work.  I am a work in progress and pray God will not give up on me.  He has given me great gifts and a clear vision of how he would have me utilize them I pray I will honor him by being the person he has called me to be. 

To all those I encounter in my daily life; friends and strangers, I pray I will somehow be a blessing in their lives and I am thankful for those who I can call friends.  They are all treasured in my life.
This Thanksgiving I also pray for our nation and for our leaders that God will bestow on them wisdom and a sense of unity.  That they are able to set aside differences and biases and make the tough decisions necessary to bring our country back to a world power which is admired and revered by all.

For those who are lost, confused and or alone may God bless you and protect and guide you to better days.  Mostly may he surround you with his grace and comfort you in your trying times.

So, this Thanksgiving I am most thankful for a precious Lord who won victory over death for me and for you and who we can embrace all of our pain, all of our struggles, all of successes and all of our gratitude.  May you know God’s love for you this Thanksgiving and always.  Amen