THANK-FULL-NESS

Sitting here CRYING on this Friday morning the day after Thanksgiving thinking about how blessed we are to be in our temperature proof home, refrigerator stuffed with food pile high from yesterday’s feast, and relaxing on a paid day off. So why would I be crying? Because I realized it’s not because of our goodness but, because of the mercies of God that we are not consumed. One of the first things I read this morning was a story about a man that is now homeless right here in my hometown Houston. Why is that significant? Seeing that the homeless has always been with us. I think it hit me different because I was just laying here thinking about how blessed we are, and then to hear this man, say that he was laid off in March of this year, within months he went from being in a house, and then down to two hundred and twelve dollars, now living in his car under a bridge. It touched my heart. Which only confirms everyone that is living under a bridge is not there by choice. I began to cry because I thought, Lord this could be me. I cried because there are so many like him in need of help. Someone I’ve known for a few years now, recently shared with me two weeks ago that they were living in their car for a stance, all while going to my church. Looking at this individual, I would have never known. As far as I know, this individual never spoke to anyone there about their circumstance. I know this individual didn’t complain about it, as much as I can remember, I don’t feel I saw a significant difference in their physical expressions. I was stunned to hear them tell me this. The words, “You never know what a person is going through” took on a whole new meaning upon hearing this. Listen, we know where we are today but what we don’t know is where we will be tomorrow. The individual didn’t go into the circumstance that led them there and why they didn’t go to family, neither did I ask. What I know is this, although, I have never experienced being homeless, I have come to understand, that losing a place to live not only involves the material part of the loss but, it apparently affects a part of the person mental-state of mind. If you have shelter, clothing, and food, you have a reason to take a moment and give God “Thanks” for everything you have, and never take a moment of it for granted!

Have you ever stopped and really thought about how God has kept “YOU” safe amid millions!?! The gospel group called The Winans wrote a song called “Millions Didn’t Make it” and the words go on to say, but I was one of the ones who did! This song was referencing “heaven”, but can be easily applied to the crisis we are faced with today. There are millions of deaths from COVID worldwide and millions of cases. Yet God is keeping us safe day by day. I used worldwide because God is God over the universe, not just the United States, not just the town you live in. The bible said in Psalms 91:4 He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust.” Isn’t it unimaginable to think about how God can care for an entire world and still know you by name! Honor and praise shall forever be in my mouth. Speaking of praise, last Tuesday night around 8:10 or so I was on the phone laughing profusely with my sister Phyllis on the heels of a pretty decent day, so I thought at the time. Within minutes after hanging up from her, I called upstairs to question Justin about being marked absence from one of his classes that day, as many of you know he’s home-schooled due to the pandemic. Seconds after sending the email to his teacher while my head was still looking down at my phone, my husband and I heard this thump. Just like that, Justin had fainted. His head landed inches from the gym weight that was on his bedroom floor. I’m getting choked up typing this, I can truly say that it is by the Grace of God that we are not burying my child this weekend. He hit his head hard enough on the right side to bend his eyeglass frame into his face and he has a scar for remembrance. On my way to the hospital I truly didn’t know what to think…. It’s 2020, right?!? The year of “uncertainty” to say the least. But God! All the test that were done in the ER were negative, (PRAISE GOD), the doctor said, possibly dehydration and possibly blood rushing to his feet which caused him to faint. I pause right now to give God thanks “again” that he spared my child’s life and spared us from the grief we would have greatly endured.

As I think back on my life and I see God’s grace and favor on every part of it, even when I felt I was going through hell. In every circumstance God was kind to me. When I felt I couldn’t go on, he gave me strength. When I was wearied and in need of encouragement, he encouraged me. I’ve grown in my trust in God. He continues to remind me in his magnificent way that “I AM GOD”. And just like that, he makes all things new! I'm sure many of you can relate. Jesus speaks to us through his own words in the book of Matthew 19:26 by saying, But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Whatever you lack and whatever your need is, He can “handle” it.

Every year I spend Thanksgiving Day and the days before consumed with preparing, cooking, cleaning, and shopping, that sitting down and really reflecting on the “GOODNESS” of God can get lost in the shuffle. As you grow older your outlook on life and priorities take a huge shifting. Things you once took for granted hold a new found appreciation. After all it’s called “Thanksgiving” right?! I woke up this morning with an attitude of gratitude... truly “thanking” God for all he has done and continue to do for me and my family. Also, my immediate and extended family and friends. As I look around in the midst of these terrible times for many of our fellow Americans, my heart is full of prayer and empathy. It’s a degradation to see the sitting President fighting a lost battle about a lost election, while the country is in such a vile state. Congress is as much to blame as they continue the same ole’ fight continues across the isles at the cost of the American people while their lives remain unchanged. Therefore, while I’m thankful, I feel it’s by God-Given duty to keep in mind those who are less fortunate and to try to do my part. Let us not forget that many are grieving due to the loss of love ones, sickness, and many are in bankruptcy or at the verge. I pray for all men and women every where that the grace of God shine upon them and lead them into a better day.

As we sit and give “Thanks” in our upcoming days during this holiday season, perhaps over a cup of tea, about how good God has been to us. Let us also pray to see where we can be a help in word, time, or deed to someone who is hurting or in need of assistance. I often say “This is the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” …. Today, I have to pause and think… “Can everyone say that during these times”? There are millions of people in need at this time, especially this year amid this pandemic. The Bible says it's more blessed to give than to receive. Wondering what can you do? There are several causes we can find ourselves being a part of and lending a helping hand. Remember, every little bit helps. The extra change from your store purchase going to the Red Cross or St Jude’s Children Hospital, or whatever charity it may be, give the gift! It adds up. Perhaps you can find an individual, church, or business that is doing something in their community and become a part of that effort. If we sow little seeds everywhere, we can help make a” BIG” difference in the lives of each other. If we all do our part, we can make this world a better place. Blessed people, Bless PEOPLE!

Until next time, be good to yourselves……