Happy Thanksgiving!
It's Thanksgiving Day, you may be eagerly anticipating the smell of turkey roasting in the oven, generous portions of stuffing, mac-n-cheese, green beans, buttery mashed potatoes, yams and the perfect slice of pumpkin or pecan pie. It is a special time when friends and family will gather for fellowship and a time of reflection. The table pictured in this post was my grandmothers. I spent many days taking my place at the table to eat breakfast, lunch and supper. I even had a special seat, that sometimes my cousins would 'fight' over to see who could get there first and claim it. Mamaw always welcomed us to her table and always had something prepared to share. She opened up her home, table and food filled with love and joy was shared by many. She and my Papaw would talk about our sweet Savior, love us, teach us His word and prayed many prayers. Now this special table sits in our house, where I get to share and make special memories with our kids. I like to think she is looking down with a sweet smile on her face, knowing I am doing my best to point my family to Him. Just like she did.
This year, I am more excited about reflecting on those blessings that await at the table of God. You have a place at God’s table. However, if you don’t even know you’re invited or welcome, then you won’t take your seat, and therefore, you won’t feast on the banquet of blessings He has set before you. I always knew when I was at Mamaw and Papaw's house, I had a place and was welcomed with open arms and so much love. I would never leave physically or spiritually hungry.
See this year, my view at the table looks much different than it did last year. Last year, I had such an emptiness in my heart; missing my dad, step-dad and grandmothers that had recently passed. I was questioning and trying to figure out how our beautiful masterpiece got smashed into a billion pieces and no one could put it back together. I didn't feel worthy or deserving of a place at God's table. I was ready to give up and just quit living life. Those of you that know me personally, know that is not my character. I was in a dark hole, depressed, fighting anxiety attacks and yet trying to be thankful and knowing God had a plan, but my heart just ached. I was broken. I was shattered.
I realize 2020 has not been a great year for most and has presented numerous challenges; but this year, I scooted up real close to our Heavenly Father's table. He ushered me in very close with His Presence, held me tight and reassured that He had me and everything was gonna be alright.
So, what did I find on the menu at God’s table? I found the answer to every need, the fulfillment of every desire that my heart was yearning for, and a helping of every good thing—in short, you’ll find THE BLESSINGS of the Lord. When you take your place at the table of God, His menu includes helpings of grace, healing, peace and abundance, and they are all for you to taste and see that the Lord is truly good (Psalm 34:8)!
Grace, grace, amazing grace! A simple definition of God’s grace is “God’s unmerited or undeserved favor.” Last year I didn't think I deserved a place at the table, so I almost didn’t even show up. But the very definition of grace gives everyone a right and a place at God’s table. If you’re covered under the blood of Jesus, you made the covenant with the most powerful Being in the universe by grace. That’s something to shout about!
"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me."
2 Corinthians 12:9
The healing process has been just that; a long, hard, drawn out process that I have to work at daily. Sometimes we get caught up in our own issues, hurt, and burdens that we forget what Jesus had to endure in the process of taking on our sins. He walked on this earth in a physical body and bore our sins. He was beaten for me and you. HE DIED for us.. Through His stripes I am healed. Go to the table and seek out your healing.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30
Peace that passes all understanding... I needed a super size helping of Peace this year. I like to be in charge, preparing the menu so to speak. But we all know, we are not the ones truly in charge of our life. To quote the Holderness family podcast, "We're just passengers". I would not have allowed 2019 to happen the way it did. God provided me the peace in my heart that eased the tension and anxiety that I was facing.
"And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:7
Presence...I prayed that God would illuminate His Presence in all areas of my life. While I still face challenging days; in fact, as the holidays approach, my heart hurts and I still have to fight to seek Him on my journey. I miss sitting at the table with my Dad, step-dad, grandparents and feeling their presence in my life. While they are not with us physically, I am thankful for the years and memories that we had together. I cling to those memories for comfort.
"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9
As you gather and celebrate your Blessings with your family this Thanksgiving, my prayer is that you scoot up real close to the table. Enjoy your time, laugh and reflect on the year. Most importantly, scoot up real close to the Heavenly Table and seek Him for he can (and will) provide you the blessings your hear desires and yearns for.
Thanksgiving Blessings from our family to yours!
When Life is spinning, pick your focal point!
~The Lord family
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