Exodus 33:14  God said, “My presence will go with you and I will give you rest.”

I’ve always loved the Thanksgiving holiday. The gathering of the larger, extended family around the table filled with special food was always unifying and grounding.  My Thanksgiving traditions have changed.  Now I share the holiday with a smaller part of my family. We still gather at the table which is filled with special food.  I still find it unifying and grounding.  In reflection on the transition of tradition, I find the essence of what provides unity.  It is God’s presence.

God’s presence allows me to be content in my circumstances.  This awareness allows me to live authentically.  God’s grace abounds when I shed pretense and realize that I have enough.  Gratitude follows.  Gratitude becomes not only a response but an attitude that infuses all areas of my life.  Gratitude opens my heart so God’s love flows.  A deep sense of inner peace results.

Looking forward to this year’s Thanksgiving celebration, I am grateful for God’s presence in the past.  I am grateful for God’s presence now.  God’s grace surrounded me through the years.  God’s presence has gone with me.  My awareness has increased over the years. In this moment I am filled with love and resting in God’s inner peace.

Take a minute to reflect on your awareness of God’s presence as you prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving. How do awareness, grace and gratitude blend to form the foundation for true Thanksgiving. What might result?

Gratefully,

Evelyn