Family and Thanksgiving by Denise Wedel

Thanksgiving is usually thought of as a time to gather together with family and celebrate. What if you are all alone with no one to celebrate with, missing a loved one who has passed away, or have a family that is not a joy to be around? This time can be a discouraging and even a painful time for many.

How many of us are even aware of those we know that have nowhere to go for these holidays? Do we open our homes to them? What if we know someone who is missing a child or parent, do we send them a note or give them a call? Do we pray for the friends we know that are having family difficulties?

The Bible tells us to love. But, do we know what that looks like? Do we practice it? Please don’t get so wrapped up in your own plans that you forget to be like Christ. Love on your family members as well. How about that uncle that is rude. Do you practice love to him? How about a hurting family member? Do you sit down and sincerely listen? How about a hug? They go a long way for the hurting.

John 15:12 says, “This is my commandment, that you love one another, just as I have loved you.”  Do you know how God has loved us? It says in the very well known verse, John 3:16, ““For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life.” That is some extreme love!