The Blessing Box

Tuesday, November 3rd, 2009

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1

This month many of us will gather with family and friends for a Thanksgiving meal of turkey and stuffing. In many homes it’s a tradition to go around the table and have each person mention something for which they are thankful.

One of the best ideas for remembering all of the good things that occurred over the past year comes from a couple I know, Bob and Jody. Throughout the year, whenever they experience some unexpected blessing—whether large or small—they jot down what happened and put the note in what they call the “blessing box.” On Thanksgiving Day they read the notes aloud while their family is gathered around the dinner table. It helps them remember and acknowledge God’s goodness, and they hope it fosters hearts of gratitude in their children.

The blessing box is a great way to keep track of blessings we might otherwise forget. And it’s a powerful antidote for the many marketing messages we receive that are designed to foster discontentment.

Of course, the Bible teaches us to give thanks not just for the blessings we experience, but in all circumstances—during good times as well as times of trial.

For me, the holiday season will always be bittersweet. My mother died a week and a half before Christmas in 2003, and my father died the day after Thanksgiving in 2004. At the time of my father’s death, the worship team at our church frequently sang the song “Blessed Be Your Name.” It seemed oddly upbeat for a song that includes the lyrics, “You give and take away.” For months following my father’s death I found it impossible to sing along. But with the passage of time, the pain of their loss has been eased by my gratitude for having parents that I deeply loved and respected.

I know that many people are in the midst of very challenging circumstances – unemployment, health problems, and more. I don’t think God expects us to sugarcoat those trials and just put on a happy face. However, I do think he wants us to remember that he knows our needs and promises to provide for us.

This Thanksgiving may we all praise and thank God for the many blessings we experienced over the past year, even in midst of our trials.