Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:3-7 ESV).
Well, we have arrived at the day we celebrate as Thanksgiving. I’ve attached a print of the 1988 Texas Turkey Stamp originally painted by John Cowen. If you hunted the Rio Grande Turkey in Texas, undoubtedly you have seen such a scene as this unfold. I’ve been set up in a mesquite and cactus filled field, quietly waiting for the sun to rise and thinking of the excitement of calling a gobbler into range on many occasions. Usually this time of the year is cool with a bright sunrise. I am always struck by the joy of the beginning of a new day, especially outdoors. The birds are the first to awaken with their songs; then the smaller critters stir as they rush through the underbrush; and, last the larger wildlife begin to make their way through the fields foraging for their day’s food. It is a glorious sight.I won’t be afield hunting today. Mary and I plan to be with family and friends for lunch and spend the evening at home. While I don’t know what your plans are for the day I hope you’ll leave a comment of your plans along with this post. It will be fun to hear from you. I’ve also chosen the Scripture from the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Philippian church in which he sends his own expression of gratitude and some instructions to them. Toward the end of the letter he indicates that we ought to not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God (v. 6).
There are plenty of things to “be anxious” about today. It may be a critical situation you are facing personally; or, possibly a family situation that has begun to erode your hope and peace. When these circumstances develop in my life, I find it very helpful to immerse myself in those very pleasant memories of God’s provision in the past. These times are often found in my time afield. I seem to see God best at those times. My encouragement to you today is to relive such a time in your life. It will bring you great peace. God bless… and Happy Thanksgiving from Texas!