It is nearly Thanksgiving. When I think about Thanksgiving, I get a warm family feeling. It is a time to laugh; eat pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and turkey; and play games with everyone. It’s a great time to praise the Lord for all His blessings and presence.

I know that not everyone has family that is close either in distance or heart; I am truly sorry about that. I have a great family, and we enjoy each other . . . most of the time. I will pray that if you’re alone, you truly experience Christ’s presence. If you’re depressed or anxious, believe in the message of the Bible about faith and hope.

Let me suggest something. First, you reach out to others. If you have family, call them instead of waiting for them to call you. Do the same for friends and neighbors. Invite another person over for a homemade, or store-bought, piece of pie or cake. If you can drive, go to a nursing home, and talk or listen to a person with no other friends.

Remember, in giving out, you receive. In Luke 6:38 it reminds us of this promise, “Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over . . .” I know the virus is here, real, and deadly. Wear your mask and share. I promise, if you become Jesus’ hands touching other’s lives; His voice speaking words of comfort and healing; His ears listening to pain, fear, and loneliness; His mouth speaking words of hope, faith, and kindness; and His feet walking out deeds of kindness, He will become everything you need and give you the desires of your heart as your heart is stayed on Him.

Friend and fellow disciple, of Christ, I wish we could sit down and share a big piece of Sarah’s (Nana’s) pecan or pumpkin pie and laugh, joke, and talk about Jesus. I know we cannot, though. Pray for me, and our family, and I promise we will pray for you.

– Written by Pa

Be blessed and Happy Thanksgiving.