A GRATEFUL HEART THIS THANKSGIVING
From Bevan Springer
New York Amterdam News
NEW YORK (November 22, 2012) – It’s been another challenging year, and particularly so for our friends and neighbors in the northeast USA and in the Caribbean who suffered the wrath of Hurricane Sandy.
While the New York City area and countries like Jamaica, Haiti and Cuba continue to recover from the devastation and destruction, we give thanks for the city officials and our leaders who continue to work beyond the call of duty to help people, families and communities get back on their feet again.
As we enter another Thanksgiving season, we also give thanks for God’s blessings for all that He has done for us and continues to do for us.
The scriptures teach us we are part of something much greater than ourselves, and as God so loved the world, it is our duty to love everyone He loves.
I am personally thankful this season for the love of Jesus Christ and for His word which has come to set us free from sin, from condemnation, and more importantly, His word which leads to salvation.
In Matthew 5:38 we are taught: You have heard that it was said, “An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.” But I tell you not to resist him who is evil; rather whoever slaps you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also. And to him who wishes to sue you and take your tunic, yield to him your cloak also; And whoever compels you to go one mile, go with him two.”
I am thankful this Thanksgiving season for the knowledge which teaches us a totally different set of reactions. Instead, we are called not to be conformed to the pattern of this world, but to be transformed through the renewing of our mind. In short, to change the way we think; as an idle mind is indeed the playground of the devil.
Reverend Dr. A.R. Bernard tweeted recently: “What you hear, you think. What you think, you believe. What you believe, you become. So guard your mind.”
My prayer is that we continue to stay in His word, and seek His kingdom and His righteousness and so we can continually be empowered to bless and be a blessing to friends and enemies alike.
I am truly blessed this Thanksgiving, and continue to be thankful for my faith, my family, my friends and those who follow my musings throughout the year.
Be blessed family.