Thanksgiving is such a special day to spend time with family and eat good food, but to truly give thanks for all that God has done for us. Even in the midst of troubling times, there is always so much to be thankful for, blessings to count, and opportunities to let our light shine.
Last week, Knox’s teacher gave us the most special opportunity to experience her Thanksgiving Flashlight Celebration for kids and parents alike. We gathered around in a circle in the classroom to share why we were thankful for our children. The lights were turned off and one flashlight lit the way. We made sure that the one flashlight always pointed up to heaven, as we gave glory to God with thankful and joyful hearts.
One by one, we read to our child a few paragraphs we wrote about them and why we were thankful for them. As per usual, I could barely keep myself together, emotionally recalling all of for which I am thankful. As tears streamed down my face, I read this aloud to my only child.
Knoxie, I am thankful for you, because…
I prayed for you for so long and God made you especially for me. Just as Psalm 193 says, he created your inmost being and knit you together in my womb. You are fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, and I know that full well, because in six and a half short years you have proved that to be true.
I am thankful for you, because you have already taught me and thousands of others the true meaning of strength, courage and resilience. You are brave, kind, and love like Jesus loves. I am so thankful that, because of who he made you to be, he was able to pursue me and strengthen my walk with Jesus Christ. I am so thankful to be your mommy, Knox, even if sometimes you can be a little turkey!
Love, Mommy
As we move into the hustle and bustle of Christmas time, where decorating our houses, shopping, and entertaining are at the top of our to-do list’s, let’s not forget to remember what we are most thankful for, and what this time of year truly represents.
In this time of struggle within our nation, where there is so much divide, use your words and actions to shine the light of Christ. Be the flashlight that lights up someone’s darkness, so that they may see your faithfulness and good works. Just as you learned as a child to “let your light shine,” it’s just as easy as that! Be the flashlight or candle that never gets turned off or blown out, yet burns brightly. Share your soul through your eyes, as they are the lamp of the the body and the light that shines out into the world for all to see Him through you.
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m gonna let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m gonna let it shine
Hide it under a bushel? No!
I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.
Don’t let Satan blow it out,
I’m gonna let it shine
Don’t let Satan blow it out,
I’m gonna let it shine
Don’t let Satan blow it out,
I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
This little light of mine,
I’m gonna let it shine
Let it shine,
Let it shine,
Let it shine.
Dear Lord, thank you for sending your only Son to be the Light of the World. May we let his light shine through us to help build our communities, be a blessing to others, and spread love amongst our nations. Amen.
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