Don't Pack Everything Away with the Decorations

by Ruth Coghill

January 2008

As I packed away my Christmas decorations this week, my thoughts wandered to a conversation with my five year old grandson, Cole, just a couple weeks before Christmas. Feeling overwhelmed with all that needed to be done not only at home but at church and in the community, my mood was anything but positive. Cole watched as I pulled out a couple garlands from the massive pile of would-be decorations.

“Nana, you have a LOT of decorations,” Cole exclaimed.

“I know Cole... way too many.” I stated slowly, feeling the excessiveness of the season.

“Well, are you thankful?” was his response.

“Well, are you thankful?”

Now I must say, I was taken by surprise with this candid, albeit, innocent remark of this special little boy. Perhaps he had it totally right. Being thankful was exactly what I needed at the moment and it was not on my agenda at precisely that point. Cole's comment reminded me to rejoice in all, even the busyness and clutter. I love Christmas... the decorating, the presents and the family fun but I could have missed out.  I had a wonderful season and maintained that thankful heart. Thanks Cole!

For another year, Christmas has come to an end. As we start 2008 let's not pack away our thankful hearts. Let's keep the reminder of a five year old (a thankful heart) out and in use this entire year. Let's keep childlike faith and hope alive!

Suggestion: Begin a 2008 “Rejoice and Be Thankful” journal. You can start with the following verses and add all year. You will have your personal resource to peruse when you feel overwhelmed, discouraged or lonely.

Why are we to be thankful?   Psalm 100: 4     92:1      93:1-3   96:1-6    98:1-3

How are we to be thankful? Reread the above verses and add your thoughts. See if you can find two more verses to add to your journal.

Look at Romans 12:12 Why can we rejoice?

When are we to be thankful?  Philippians 4:4

Suppose that God has asked us to rejoice ALWAYS so that we do not become overwhelmed with   life and its challenges.

For what are we to be thankful? 2 Thessalonians 1:3   Ephesians 1:16

Perhaps for some of you this year holds new challenges. Death, sickness or job loss makes it seem impossible to be thankful. While you may not be thankful for the experience at first, you can be thankful that God is faithful. He will help you through 2008. He will never leave your side. Hebrews 13:5. Remember, He is not the one who leaves. Don't leave HIM out!

May you sense the love, peace and joy of our Saviour as you begin this new year.

Happy New Year!

I'd love to hear from you as you begin your journey of a THANKFUL HEART.

Love and Happy Serving HIM!
Ruth Coghill 

seasonedwithsalt@sympatico.caeasonedwithsalt@sympatico.ca