A season of thankfulness

I have always been a bit of a Grinch about the Christmas season. It is often cold and bleak outside. There is a lot to do in a short amount of time: planning, shopping, baking, and the list goes on. Stores are crowded. It can be hectic. I just don’t get into the holiday spirit, and there is nothing wrong with that, I thought.

But then during our church’s Christmas celebration, I heard something that caused me to reflect on my negative attitude, and I saw that it wasn’t good. A man expressed what a wonderful time of year this was: how it was worth celebrating because of Jesus’ life. He ended with heartfelt thankfulness for the holiday season. Was I truly thankful for this season as well? According to God’s Word, thankfulness is always appropriate, regardless of the season. During this time of celebrating Jesus’ birth and looking back on the previous year, thankfulness is even more pertinent.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” John 3:16.

I began to think about Jesus and how His life of faithfulness and sacrifice is an example and help for me to live like Him, well-pleasing to God, every day. About the sacrifice He made for my sake in coming down to earth as a man so that I could have eternal life. I thought about the goodness that I had experienced throughout the year from God, my friends, and family. Isn’t this worth celebrating and praising God for? How could I be anything but thankful for this time of year?

Not unlike the Grinch, I have had a change of heart. I am becoming more thankful for festive gatherings where Jesus is honored. I am becoming more thankful for the extra little opportunities to bless others during this time of year. Complaints and concern with all that needs to be done make the holiday season glum. Thankfulness is much lighter!

“Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” Matthew 11:28-30.