A Thanksgiving Prayer...

Heavenly Father,

I am in the daily habit of counting my many blessings, naming them one by one. It reminds me of how truly fortunate I am - how rich I am in all the ways that matter. I remember, of course, to express gratitude for an amazing family and a bounty of good friends; for a safe and lovely home, surrounded by neighbors who care for one another; for reliable transportation; for resources with which I'm able to enjoy good food and entertainment, and also access the medical professionals who help me to manage my health; for a faith community that challenges and inspires me in my spiritual walk; and, most importantly, for the gift of Your love and Your Son.

During this week of Thanksgiving, however, it occurs to me that I often forget to thank You for some of the most incredible blessings You've given me: five senses with which I'm able to experience and enjoy the beauty of Your creation. Help me to remember that these senses are meant to be employed not only for my benefit, but also for the benefit of those around me. Give me eyes to see and ears to hear those who have physical, emotional and spiritual needs that I can meet. As I reach out to assist them, allow my touch to become like Yours - soothing, encouraging, healing and transformative - and Your name to be glorified. Permit those I encounter to "taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in him." (Psalm 34:8)

Thank You, Lord, for the gifts I've been given; for the blessings too numerous to count; for the peace that comes as I take refuge in You.

Amen. 

Photo by Kiy Turk on Unsplash