When things are going well in our lives it’s easy to be thankful for all we have.  We are joyful because of an abundant life, with a good job and a healthy family.  But there are many who are struggling this time of year. Some of us will have an empty seat at our Thanksgiving table because of the loss of a loved one or deployment; others are in a dark place because of a lost job, a sick child or failing marriage. When life hits us hard how can we exercise joy and gratefulness? My pastor reminded me this past Sunday that, “God gives us joy even in the darkest times.”   

So this Thanksgiving, no matter what stage of life you are in: choose joy, choose faithfulness and choose to live in God’s good grace.  

Happy Thanksgiving!

-Ana Kelly

“Rejoice in the Lord always.“
Philippians 4:4