Father, I am grateful for a few much-needed days off. May I find rest, and may I use the time I have been given wisely. Amen.
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Today, being the last school day before our Thanksgiving break, I got to thinking about atypical Thanksgiving experiences. Unfortunately, they may be far more common than I would admit.
Traditionally, at least in our mind’s eye, we like to think that on this day multigenerational families gather around the table. Favorite dishes are expertly prepared by hands that others would be hard-pressed to recreate. A prayer of sincerest gratitude is uttered as heads are bowed, eyes closed, and, many times, hands are held in the unity of spirit and love. There is lively conversation. There is laughter. A picturesque experience is had by all.
Now maybe none of us can hit every point there but, the ones that can accomplish any number of them are truly blessed.
As I thought about the kids on my routes, I could not help but think of the many from divided families. There may have been a number of years when the above was true for them as well. But sadly, it is no longer the case. For some this year it is mom’s turn, for last year was dad’s. For others, part of the day will be spent with one parent and their new companion while the other part of the day is spent with the other.
For others, no choices of division were made. The division was thrust upon them – accidents, disease, violence – and life will never…ever…be the same.
Others, possibly due to poor decisions on their part, or often circumstances totally beyond their control, brought devastation and loss – debilitating loss – to their lives. Abject poverty and homelessness plague far too many in a culture where many have money to burn.
Now maybe they might have access to shelters or missions that would provide them with some type of sustenance. I’m sure they are grateful…but does their experience equal any semblance of a “traditional” Thanksgiving.
I am not belittling or downplaying any of those experiences. May we support organizations that with great determination take up the challenge to meet the needs of those less fortunate. May we even lend a hand when we are able.
But what went through my mind as I drove my routes today, was to pray for those individuals who have found themselves in the middle of division or loss…or grief. Even when they are surrounded by others, even those they would consider loved ones, the loss and grief cannot just be set up on the self and forgotten. Those things are a part of who they are. It would be just as possible to remove the head off their shoulders and place it on the shelf…it simply cannot be done.
This Thanksgiving…this holiday season, in your prayer time, set apart some time to lift others up…those who have lost spouses, parents, siblings, and on and on it goes – some to death and some to the hardness of life. I cannot help but think of children – both young and old – whose parents had once been united in love and are now divided. May we pray for them, as well.
The Lord is close to the brokenhearted;
he rescues those whose spirits are crushed. Psalm 34:18 NLT
He heals the brokenhearted
And binds up their wounds [healing their pain and comforting their sorrow]. Psalm 147:3 AMP
Lord Jesus, I’m glad You understand all this and love despite our selfishness and sin. My understanding is limited, but may I take Your lead and love as You do. May I be burdened to pray for the hurting. May I lift them to You, the Healer of all. Amen.
Nov 22nd, 2022, Tues, 7:20 pm
