November – Grace, Gratitude, and Generosity

Doesn’t the nip in the air move you to action, former procrastinators?  Between fall’s arrival and our October cleanout projects, I’m revved for the season.  Go for a walk, sweep the porch, bake a casserole.  Changing leaves and a chill in the air are invigorating.

This month we focus on a lifestyle of Thanksgiving as we ponder grace, gratitude and generosity.  We’ll also look at preparing for Thanksgiving celebration.

Having been made a child of God through Jesus Christ is the most wonder-full thing that’s ever been done for any of us.  He set His love on us and made us His own.  That’s transforming.  It gives peace, relief, direction, motivation.

Yet sometimes I lose this amazing gift among chores, folks who need me, job demands, and even screen time.  I cut quiet time short saying, “I’ll think about that verse later.”  “I’ll pray for them later.”  The busy procrastinator.

Let’s slow down and consider that God alone is truly awesome. He has made us His own through Jesus.  Because of His grace, we don’t have to worry about making it to heaven. His blood cleansing us means we are in, accepted.  He has secured our place. Instead of being fretful about measuring up, we are free to receive His assurance of salvation and His direction and strength for living now.  We can respond with joy and gratitude.

Such response creates a lighter heart and brings a positive perspective even in trials.  As we notice His goodness to us in large things and small, we are filled with His loving presence and joy.  Out of that, we give generously.

To be generous means to give more than is expected or necessary. “Genus” means “stock,race” which became “noble, magnanimous.” Generosity was considered a characteristic of those of noble birth.

Oh!  I Peter 2:9  “But you are a holy nation, a royal priesthood, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.” ESV

We are made to be grateful and generous.  God’s grace extended to us means we can extend grace to others.  And He through us to others.  Because of His grace, there is gratitude and generosity.

Preparation:  Working ahead of time relieves pressure and helps us prepare with attitudes of grace, gratitude and generosity.  Though it’s no excuse, when pressed for time, I tend to become harried, demanding, and snippy. I’d rather focus on gladly sharing blessings.

This week, settle where you’ll be for Thanksgiving and what your role will be – guest or host.

If hosting, issue invitations.  Specify who brings what dishes if any.

Plan your menu and make the grocery list.  Call to reserve any specialty items.

Prep bedrooms for overnighters.

If you anticipate being alone, consider inviting someone over for rotisserie chicken from the store and box stuffing.  The point is to be grateful together. Your generous spirit will minister.

How does being part of a generous people affect your thinking and action?