Casandra Martin

“As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.” ~John Fitzgerald Kennedy

Families are gathering, seasonings are lined up on the kitchen counter, pie pans are waiting to be filled, and the good dishes are ready to be set on the table. Thanksgiving is tomorrow, and as we prepare for a day set aside to remember and recount our blessings, take a moment to pause and soak in the deep reality of what it means to be thankful.

Being thankful is more than just words that you say. It is a life-defining, eye-opening, soul-expanding, heart-stretching way to live. Thanksgiving is a commitment to live fully and completely in the presence of God. It is a resolution to open our eyes and be alert to the way He moves in and around us. It is a moment in each day when we breathe in and recognize our dependence on the One who gives us life. It propels us into love, helps us stop short in wonder, and invites us into worship.

Thanksgiving is the whisper of a heart touched by grace. It is traced in steps of humility, echoed in songs of praise, revealed in deep surrender, and evident in the way we love, laugh, and reach for His hand.

If people couldn’t hear your words, could they see thanksgiving in your life?

My Jesus Resolution today is to live thanks. President Kennedy is right. Thanksgiving is more than a holiday. It is a habit. I am going to make a point to express my gratitude today, but I am going to be deliberate about living out my thanksgiving each and every day.