Sunday, November 21, 2010

Hmmmm.... Thanksgiving

Does the meaning of Thanksgiving mean something more to you and your family than a day of eating, watching the games, the parades, and getting ready for shopping? Has the meaning of gratitude been a little lost in your home? If so, then spend some time this month utilizing some or all of these tips to redirect your family back to the real meaning of Thanksgiving.


• Write Bible verses that name the attributes of God on fruit-shaped cut-outs. Place them in a basket or cornucopia. During a time of family devotions or at a meal, have each family member select a fruit from the basket and read the verse aloud. Then discuss ways your family has experienced each of God's qualities.

• Think about reasons for ingratitude. Most of us are incredibly blessed, yet we find reasons to complain. This week, any time family members complain about something, have them place money in a jar. Your family can decide the amount. Then at the end of the week, donate the money to the soup kitchen or mobile meals to help with Thanksgiving meals.

• Think of someone you love and appreciate, but rarely see. Make plans to call, send a card, or visit that person. Find out if there is a special need, pray with the person, and provide materially or with an act of service.

• Focus on praising God. Let each family member select a praise chorus or hymn. Sing a different one at each meal instead of saying a blessing. Thank God for material provision, physical health, spiritual blessings, our country, our church, and family.

Sunday, November 7, 2010

"Tee" Time

I know the busy season of the holidays are vastly approaching and just want to encourage you to stay faithful in the disciplines of a disciple of the King. It would be a tragedy for the season to come and go only to have found ourselves caught up with the season without celebrating the reason. Let your focus be Jesus and your time with Him filling. It may take some extra planning and effort on your part to make sure you meet with Jesus everyday but set your alarm and get up earlier than normal but please meet with Jesus!

Psalm 5:3
Listen to my voice in the morning, Lord. Each morning I bring my requests to you and wait expectantly.


A short devotion:


A Christmas Candle


A Christmas candle is a lovely thing;
It makes no noise at all,
But softly gives itself away;
While quite unselfish, it grows small.
- Eva K. Logue


John the Baptist said of Jesus: "He must become greater and greater, and I must become less and less." John 3:30 (NLT)


We are like this Christmas candle that holds the flame, burning strong and bright the light of Christ. We softly give ourselves away in worship of Him and service for Him, that we might become less and less, and that He might become greater and brighter through us.

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