Have you seen the patches of wildflowers that they planted in the median of the highway? I have. I have often wondered; what do they smell like. I would like to spread out a blanket and rest there for a bit.
But, I am on the highway, moving at 70 – 80 miles per hour, and I have places to go, things to do, and people to please. So, I don’t stop – I am too busy.
Well, stop and smell those wildflowers! What a picture of modern life – go fast, go far, but never stop and smell the Roses. We rush past some the best things in life because we do not hit the brakes.
Thanksgiving is a time to slow down, cross the river, and rest in the shade of the trees. It seems that we do not have the time to be grateful – to notice the rich blessings that surround us every day.
Well, hit the brakes, get out the blankets, and allow your mind and heart to rest in the blessing that God has given.
“Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
If pastoral permission will help you to pause and give thanks among family and friends, you have it. God is good, all the time. And we can give thanks in all circumstances.
After you have paused and smelt the wildflowers, then you can crank it up to 70 mph again; but now, you carry the aroma of rest and gratitude with you.
So, “Be still, and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10).