Wednesday, November 21, 2007

Giving Thanks


Every year around this time my extended family typically gathers for a family reunion, whether small or large. Some years we had to rent out an 8 bedroom cabin to fit everyone (and people still slept on couches and in campers), and some years it's just a matter of someone giving up a bed to fit the one family who's visiting. Sadly this year everyone will be sleeping in their own bed at their own homes. So instead of being surrounded by family members we will be surrounded by the memories of holidays gone by.


My mother has graciously relinquished her position as head cook this year with the understanding that none of her recipes be altered. As much as I like to "tweak" things I couldn't dream of altering a Thanksgiving recipe. It wouldn't be the same without those familiar flavors. Tradition has become one of the most comforting things to me about the holidays. Those of you who know Poppie can easily see him praying a sermon over the meal every year. If he didn't do it I think I'd feel like it wasn't Thanksgiving.


This year we'll be celebrating the Harvest with a couple of ladies from our home church and a Nigerian student from LSU. Our house definitely will not be void of love and laughter. Though I can't help but miss all those who are not with us this season, some more than others. My eyes filled with tears this morning while listening to one of those "Home for the Holidays" songs. It's a beautiful, idealistic but unrealistic thought. I comfort myself as Paul did when he said that he was present with the churches in spirit, though not in body. Those parts of our body who are apart from us will not leave our hearts and minds during this time. Every time we remember them we will give abundant thanks, just as Paul did for each of the churches. They most certainly will not be forgotten.


I love you all! Don't forget to stop for just a moment to thank God most importantly for His mercy in saving you! Happy Thanksgiving!

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