“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” – Psalm 107:1 (NIV)
Benjamin Franklin wanted the turkey—not the bald eagle—as our national bird. I get it.
I’ve been dreaming of turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and pumpkin pie. Growing up, we were a turkey-on-Thanksgiving family. One year my wife bought a turkey breast instead of the real thing. I know—who does that? She’s no longer allowed to handle the grocery list.
Recently, feeling nostalgic, I revisited our digitized home movies and photos. I went looking for Thanksgiving feasts and follies, and there it was—a photo of Mom basting the turkey.
Our house was always full at the holidays. My parents welcomed family and friends, and my brothers will attest to the last-minute or uninvited guests who somehow always found a place at our table. But Mom would remind her four hungry boys that it was “family-hold-back time.” Our job was to make sure there was enough for everyone.
Family gatherings can be beautiful—and challenging. We’d be wise to serve up a generous helping of grace this year. Not just the grace prayer before the meal, but an atmosphere of grace that releases our expectations of ourselves and others. The amazing-grace kind.
“Disappointment is the child of unrealistic expectations.” — Ken Boa
So what will you give thanks for tomorrow? And to whom will you give that thanks? Let’s get this party started on the right foot (or turkey leg).
Use the comment link to share something you’re most grateful for this year.
Run the Play — Thanksgiving Menu:
No unrealistic expectations, served with a generous helping of God’s amazing grace.
… and turkey 🦃 😀
💬 Finding Our Place in the Story
What are you grateful for this year?
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