I took my very first trip traveling alone when I was 18. I boarded a plane in Orlando, FL and flew to Murfreesboro, TN where I had enrolled in a two week course learning sign language for the deaf. It was exciting taking that first journey on my own, but a bit scary, too. Would I make my Atlanta connection to Tennessee? Would I really be met by someone? What happened if no one from the Bill Rice Ranch, where I would be staying, showed up?
Everything about the flight went smoothly. I made my connection, was met and taken to my destination. When I got to my room I opened my suitcase to find something there that I would find numerous times over the next 50 years of my life. It was a note from my mother with a reminder of her prayers for me, that she was proud of me, and loved me. Signed at the bottom of every note was the reference I Thessalonians 5:18, In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you (KJV). The first time I read that at age 18, I thought it sweet, but as the years passed, I saw it as what I will call, a life settling matter.
Life settling? Yes, because each time I read the words, In everything give thanks, a peace settled over me. I knew than no matter what was outwardly happening around me, God was in control, someone who loved me was praying for me; therefore, I could give thanks. When uncomfortable things happen in our lives, when we give thanks to God, the Holy Spirit within reminds us that we are not alone. God Almighty Himself has planned our steps, will give His direction, will fill us with peace that passes all human understanding. What happens then? An inward joy fills us, spilling outward to shine the light of Jesus in our eyes, through the smile on our lips, by the lack of worry lines on our foreheads.
My 86 year old mother lives with me now. I don’t travel alone anymore. Now I have the joyful privilege of sharing each day with the wonderful, loving woman, who reminded me in every note — giving thanks to the One through whom nothing shall be impossible, who never leaves or forsakes me, who indeed is my everything to get me through anything, has been the wisest and most helpful words to me through all my days.
We are both growing older now: Mom is slower in her movements. I have a cataract that needs removing. We both ache a bit when we wake up in the mornings. Even so, we both give thanks in everything. Each new day, with its good times and less pleasant ones, are always better when we know upon Whom we love, trust, and give thanks.
May your own gift of today be filled with the joy of the Lord as you also, give thanks in all things.