This is the season for gathering together to celebrate Thanksgiving. Will we focus first on spending time, energy and money preparing for family gatherings; or will we start with being thankful and full of gratitude for all of God’s many blessings? But you may think because we’re Christians we are thankful every day. Does a day ever go by that you’ve failed to say thank you – to your spouse, your kids, the cashier, your co-worker or God?
In a recent read through Hebrews – a book I’ve read countless times through the years, it seemed like a new book to me as I contemplated afresh the role of Christ as my High Priest. I cried out my thanksgiving to Him for not only His sacrifice in dying for me, but also for his ongoing intercession on my behalf before the Father. Hebrews 8:1-2 says “Here is the main point: Our High Priest sat down in the place of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. There he ministers in the sacred tent, the true place of worship that has been built by the Lord and not by human hands.” Jesus is interceding for me before the Father in the true place of worship built by the Creator of all. Talk about something for which to be thankful!
What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving season? Freely share those thoughts with your family, friends and sisters in Christ. As you study and meditate, find those “new” things in God’s Word and renew your commitment to give thanks for what He has promised. When our thanksgiving is centered on God’s word and promises, then thankful hearts are born and mature into a thankful way of life. Expressions of gratitude pour from our lips. Like everything else, a thankful heart starts with focus on Our Good Father and his son, Jesus Christ!
“Here is the main point: We have a High Priest who sat down in the place of honor beside the throne of the majestic God in heaven. There he ministers in the heavenly Tabernacle, the true place of worship that was built by the Lord and not by human hands.” Hebrews 8:1-2
“Enter his gates with thanksgiving; go into his courts with praise. Give thanks to him and praise his name.” Psalm 100:4
Authored by Ruthann Gleason