Remember Thanksgiving

from Focus on your child; a ministry of Focus on the Family

For many Americans, Thanksgiving is nothing more than a time to prepare a gift list for a manic Christmas shopping spree. For others, Thanksgiving signifies a day of self-indulgent gorging.
But in the fall of 1621, the Pilgrims weren’t thinking about any of these things. They were clinging to life, having lost more than half their friends and family through disease or starvation in less than a year’s time. A celebration of survival, with gratitude to God for His provision, prompted them to host the first feast. Giving thanks to God motivated their meal.
Refocus your family toward gratitude this November by trying these ideas:

Week 1-As a family, make a list of your blessings. In the coming weeks, if a family member complains or expresses ingratitude about something, have that person place an agreed-upon amount of money in a jar. Donate the money to a soup kitchen or local charity to help with Thanksgiving meals.

Week 2 – Write Bible verses that describe the attributes of God (such as John 3:16, Psalm 85:2, Psalm 107:8-9, Deuteronomy 33:27 and 1 John 3:16) on fruit-shaped cutouts. Put them in a cornucopia or basket. Let family members select a piece of fruit from the basket during a time of devotions or at a meal, and read the verse aloud. Discuss ways your family has experienced each of God’s qualities.

Week 3 – List people you appreciate but rarely see. Plan to call, send a card or visit these individuals. Ask about pressing needs, pray with the person and provide materially or bless with an act of service.

Week 4 – Focus on praising God. Have each family member select a praise chorus or hymn. Sing a different one at meals instead of saying a blessing. Thank God for physical health, spiritual and material blessings, our country, your church and your family.