Wednesday, November 26, 2008

Give Thanks

Here in the U.S., we celebrate Thanksgiving Day tomorrow. The first Thanksgiving was a day for the early settlers to share a bountiful harvest with the Native Americans. The Puritans thanked God for food, which would get them through the long winter months. I thought it would be appropriate to share some of God's blessings and how He's taken care of me over the years. As we celebrate, I hope you'll take some time from the usual feasting on turkey and stuffing to express your gratitude.

I'm thankful I learned about Jesus at a young age. Even so, hearing about Him wasn't enough. Only when I invited Him into my life did I experience the reality of His presence. Knowing Him is far more than a religious belief or a set of rituals. As much as I love all those mentioned in this post, He is the only unchangeable, stable, and constant one in my life. He will never leave me nor forsake me.

Today is a bittersweet day for me. My beloved and I got married on November 26th, the day before Thanksgiving. I'm thankful to the Lord we met and married. David supported and encouraged me to spread my wings in many areas. I doubt I'd be published at all if it had not been for his gentle prodding.

I'm also thankful for my Mom. She's a woman of prayer and a faithful friend. There aren't enough words in the English language to express how precious she is to me. She and my Dad raised me in the nurture and admonition of the Lord.

During the time of my husband's illness and my own physical challenges, the support of my family, The Body of Christ, and acquaintances left an indelible impression on my soul. They surrounded us with prayer, love, and practical assistance. It's only by the grace of God and their care that I'm still here and thriving.

Last, but not least, I'm grateful for all my dear writer friends. Some of you I've met, and others I'll meet when we get to Heaven. Thank you for your generous hearts and willingness to teach newbie writers. You have enriched my life more than you know.

May the Lord bless you as you share this special day with your family and friends.

8 comments:

Jessica Nelson said...

Thank you Susan.
Happy anniversary :-) Your husband sounds like he was a wonderful man. I hope you have an enjoyable Thanksgiving tomorrow!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jessica -

Thanks for your kind words. I could say so much about him, but space doesn't permit.

Have a great Thanksgiving.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Jessica Nelson said...

Man, the blog world sure is small! I just saw your comment over on Christina Barry's site. Very cool that you e-mail THE Randy Ingermanson. I've only read two of his books, but they were real page turners!

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Jessica -

THE Randy Ingermanson is a great, down-to-earth guy. When I started this blog, I requested that we exchange links. He graciously accepted. I've also emailed him questions, which he addressed on his blog.

Forgive me if it seemed like I was name-dropping.

Blessings,
Susan :)

Crystal Laine said...

Blessings on you for this bittersweet time of memories of past joys. What a treasure it is to you. I pray many blessings on you for this season of your life, too.

((Hugs))

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Crystal -

Thank you for your kind words and cyber hugs. I miss my sweetie a lot. This time of the year is the hardest, but I have wonderful memories, a future, and a hope.

Blessings,
Susan :)

quietspirit said...

Susan:
I am thankful for the information you choose to share with us.
I am thankful that Jesus loves me and saved me despite of what He saw in my heart.
I am thankful I have some close friends here where we live.
I am thankful we have friends from hubby's childhood.

Susan J. Reinhardt said...

Hi Quiet Spirit -

I'm thankful for all the great writer friends I've met since starting this blog. You're a blessing to me.

Susan :)