2020-11-26 18:52:00

I HAVE NOT lived life in normal ways in 2020, but I HAVE lived abundantly in 2020.

I HAVE NOT entertained friends inside my home, but I HAVE been able to talk with them, mask to mask, on my front lawn or sidewalk.

I  HAVE NOT been able to take my parents out to eat, but I HAVE been able to cook for them every night.

I HAVE NOT seen all my nieces and nephews face to face, but I HAVE seen them in a ZOOM or DUO meeting.

I HAVE NOT seen my brother, Rick, and my sister-in-law, Kathy, since Christmas 2019, but I HAVE seen them on ZOOM.

I HAVE NOT been on Cairn’s campus with my students and colleagues, but I HAVE been with them online.

I HAVE NOT taken my annual trip to Germany during 2020, but I HAVE done virtual tours of France, Switzerland, and Italy.

I HAVE NOT gone on vacation in 2020, but I HAVE so enjoyed following friends on social media who have!

I HAVE NOT taught my Wednesday morning Bible Study face to face for several months, but I HAVE been able to teach every Wednesday on ZOOM.

I HAVE NOT frequented my favorite restaurants, but I HAVE done curbside pick-up.

I HAVE NOT been able to easily get all the needed supplies (toilet paper), but I HAVE everything I need to live this life.

I HAVE NOT gone inside a department store, but I HAVE shopped online.

I HAVE NOT sat in my church sanctuary since March, but I HAVE not missed one Sunday livestream service.

I HAVE NOT always been faithful in being present with others, but I HAVE experienced the faultless, faithful presence of God.

I HAVE NOT always been good at Math, but I HAVE been able to count my blessings.

I HAVE NOT always FELT grateful, but I HAVE KNOWN to give thanks anyway!

¹⁸ give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

I Thessalonians 5: 18

Happy 2020 Thanksgiving!