Preparing for Thanksgiving

When approaching the Scripture, we always ask two questions: What did it mean then and what does it mean now?

This past Sunday we took a break from our reading of Paul’s Letter to the Romans. We read from his letter in Ephesians Chapter 4. But the theme here carries forward his blunt instructions for living a life according to the Gospel of Jesus. He calls out to all in his hearing reminding them of the fundamental values and instructions for living a life faithful to Jesus. He contrasts new life in Jesus to the wider popular culture and its norms. The common cultural distractions in the Greco Roman world focused on the sensual permissiveness, greed and anger. Sound familiar? Let’s reflect on this teaching ourselves as we prepare to connect with family and friends at Thanksgiving. We commit to gathering with a humble and grateful heart. Who needs my loving attention? How can I feed all who come to our table and also offer food for their souls? Who needs my word of love and encouragement? Thank you Jesus for you life, death, resurrection and promises for us! Have a blessed Thanksgiving holiday!