Thanksgiving Thanks - My Thoughts for 2009

Who do we thank on Thanksgiving?
Is it just a motion to go through?
Many wrestle with the thought of God,
And don't really know what to do.

For me, 2009 held many ups and downs;
The loss of mom, a broken foot,
And lost dreams of a new home
In a beautiful country town.

But I'm thankful for a husband who stays loving, faithful and true,
I'm thankful for the home we do have; it's more than I am due.
I'm thankful for America where I can still walk free.
These days the way things go, it seems like that won't always be.

In every heart there is a spot that desires to be filled,
But sometimes we can't see it for pursuing our own will.
I'll never stop believing that there is a God of grace,
And wish He could be experienced by every creed and race.

Surpassing the manmade trappings of "religion" as it's called
A true relationship with God is available to one and all.
If you're longing for someone to thank for the things that you hold dear,
The invitation's open - and what better time of year?

"You turned my wailing into dancing; you removed my sackcloth and clothed me with joy, that my heart may sing to you and not be silent. O Lord my God, I will give you thanks forever." (Old Testament, Psalm 30:11-12)

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." (New Testament, Philippians 4:6-7).

(Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984 Biblica. Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved.)