Thanksgiving

"Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus," 1Thessalonians 5:18

Last week we celebrated our 3rd Thanksgiving in Israel. There are many American expatriates that live here, so we invite as many as we can each year to share the evening with us. This year, 19 people gathered in our apartment to enjoy turkey, cranberry sauce, cornbread dressing, pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, well, you get the picture. Since most Jewish holidays revolve around the Biblical feasts and Christmas is almost non-existent here, Thanksgiving is something just for us. I know it sounds a bit selfish, but we also think it is important to keep some American traditions for the sake of our children. Some of my most memorable childhood holidays were the Thanksgiving gatherings at my grandmother's house with cousins, aunts, uncles, and friends.
We have so much to be thankful for, especially as believers, because the Lord has been so good to us. Some of the things for which I am thankful: my wife, my 3 children, my parents, my extended family, my friends (both in Israel and the States), my church, my health, a fulfilling life, the Bible, my personal relationship with God and with his son, Jesus Christ, e-mail, snail mail, Skype (so I can stay in touch by phone), education, language, my Midwest heritage, snow (especially since I don't have to drive in it here), the Cleveland Indians, the Browns, and the Cavaliers. There is so much more. What is it for which you are thankful?