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Respite For the Weary
Today, in this festive time of the year, the cornucopia is often the choice item that makes its way onto the center of our kitchen or dining room tables. This decorative piece symbolizes both "abundance" as well as a "bountiful harvest", which then leads to much gratitude as we count our many blessings.
With this visual in mind, I couldn't help but compare it to an on-line devotional series that I am currently reading, (see www.soulsistersministry.com). Over the past month, many women have willingly shared why they have been "Thankful in All Circumstances" this year. To say this series has been powerful is an understatement. Just like the differing harvest fruits and vegetables that are attractively placed in a cornucopia, these unique posts have become a beautiful collection of living testimonies bound together in the love of Christ.
Here are some of the fruits on display:
Acknowledging that age brings wisdom
Recognizing the little things, the daily things
Believing that God keeps his promises
Experiencing the love of Jesus in extreme sadness
Receiving forgiveness in a relationship
Recognizing we are made in God's image
Choosing to embrace all of life's moments
Choosing life and birthing redemption
Rejoicing in a God-given relationship
Giving thanks for answered prayers, both small and big
Choosing a thankful heart no matter the trial
Celebrating healing of body and soul
Choosing to grow in difficult times
Resting in God's plan, past, present, and future.
These Soul Sisters of mine have made my intangible Thanksgiving centerpiece become very real and alive in my heart. What a bountiful display of blessing upon blessing! (And the series is not over yet!) If I were to add to this cornucopia of thankful hearts, I would have to say my fruit would be entitled:
Embracing life-change.
What about you? What are you thankful for this year? What has God done for you in even a difficult circumstance? Take a moment before the Lord and ask him to reveal one thing to you and then thank him for it. Allow this blessing to be the seed of gratitude that has the potential to bear much fruit; may each one of us be full to overflowing with an array of colorful praise.
Let us come into his presence with thanksgiving... For the Lord is a great God... Psalm 95:2-3
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The Lord was pleased to crush Him, putting Him to grief; if He would render Himself a guilt offering, He will see His offspring, He will prolong His days, and the good pleasure of the Lord will prosper in His hand. Isaiah 53:10
Dear Lord Jesus,
You died for our sin and cut the cords of guilt. How can we thank you? May we walk in the freedom you purchased and be grateful for each and every step. In your Name, Amen.