Thanksgiving Reflection

 


I know it’s the holiday season and everyone is busy right now. I would like you to take a moment to ponder in your heart about the word “paradise”. What comes to mind when you think about that word? Pause. Take a moment.

For me, when I think about paradise, the first thing that comes to my mind is being somewhere in the Caribbean islands. Aaah, just think about the coastal blue waters, the lush greenery, sunshine, the beach, sand between my toes, and beautiful sunsets!! Yes Lord!! But, let’s switch gears and think about YOUR paradise. In your life right now, what do you consider to be your own paradise? Interesting question, right?

What some of us regard as “everyday things” such as having accessible clean & running water, a pillow, clothing, shoes, electricity, food, a cellphone, etc. are like “paradise” to others. Some of us are more fortunate than others and have not lacked many things in life. Others have had to overcome many adversities just to make ends meet. I will challenge you to be more vigilant of your paradise versus someone else’s paradise this Thanksgiving. Think about some ways that you can reach out and provide a little bit of paradise to others less fortunate. Consider meditating on Galatians 6:2 Carry one another’s burdens and in this way you will fulfill the requirements of the law of Christ [that is, the law of Christian love]. (AMP) After you have meditated on this verse, I would like you to search and listen to Phil Collins song “Another Day in Paradise”. Pause. Take a moment. Reflect on that song.

Why don’t we switch gears again for a bit? Let’s use one of the definitions from Merriam-Webster for paradise: “a place or state of bliss, felicity, or delight”. I’m going to change that around and say to be in a “state of gratitude and giving thanks.” It’s Thanksgiving time and you can’t go anywhere without hearing “Happy Thanksgiving!” or such similar greeting. How about we practice giving thanks everyday instead of waiting for the holiday to count our blessings?

 Is it possible for us to be in a constant state of gratitude and giving thanks despite our circumstances? Some of you might answer “yes or “no” without hesitation and some of you might ponder on that question a little bit more. I know I am, because sometimes I let my circumstances determine my “state of being”. Consider meditating on these verses in the book of Philippians chapter 4: 10-14: I rejoiced greatly in the Lord, that now at last you have renewed your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned about me before, but you had no opportunity to show it. Not that I speak from [any personal] need, for I have learned to be content [and self-sufficient through Christ, satisfied to the point where I am not disturbed or uneasy] regardless of my circumstances. I know how to get along and live humbly [in difficult times], and I also know how to enjoy abundance and live in prosperity. In any and every circumstance I have learned the secret [of facing life], whether well-fed or going hungry, whether having an abundance or being in need. I can do all things [which He has called me to do] through Him who strengthens and empowers me [to fulfill His purpose—I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency; I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him who infuses me with inner strength and confident peace.] Nevertheless, it was right of you to share [with me] in my difficulties. (AMP). Pause. Take a moment. Reflect on that passage.

As I close with this, I want to address one last thing. I know that the holidays can be though on some of us due to experiencing various adversities including loss of loved ones. Just know that I’m sending comforting prayers and thoughts your way if you happen to be part of that majority. I pray that you feel the presence of the God of all comfort in your hearts this holiday season.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Carline

 


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