Who do I have in heaven but you? And earth has nothing I desire besides you. My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Ps. 73:25-26
Father, thank you for the common joys of life—family traditions and favorite dishes, the same jokes and tastes of hope, for the burdens we bear and the longings we share, for the brokenness that marks us and the beauty in each of us, for the “more” we all want, and the fullness you alone can give.
Indeed, may this be a Thanksgiving of resting in your love, delighting in you, and enjoying everybody for who they are. No people or person, spouse or kids, parents or friends can be “the strength of our hearts and our portion” but you. We forget this to our peril, and our loved one’s pressure. Comparison kills community; your kindness creates it.
So, help us adjust our expectations of people and a holiday, and raise our anticipation of your faithfulness and goodness. As your “chosen and dearly loved” children, free us to love to your glory and laugh with your joy, relax in your peace and serve by your grace.
Father, thank you that the best Thanksgiving holiday is just a tiny hint, whisper, and taste of the eternal feast that’s coming. And thank you, the difficult days prepare us for the great and glorious Day we deeply crave. So very Amen we pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.