Thanksgiving - My Reasons to Give Thanks

In some ways it is so easy, in other ways it is difficult: How to truly give thanks?Whether it is God our Father in heaven or a loved one, we have the opportunity to share our life with each other....and with Him who so loves us.

Here are some pictures of recent activities which I thank God for....
Thanksgiving at Nozomi (Hope) Lutheran Church, here in Niigata, Japan.
Students
James Apartment Blessing and open house

It can be so easy because most of us are taught from an early age (in any culture or language) to say, "thank you". So, from the time we are children we are given this instruction.

However, we grow up. We develop habits and expectations. Sometimes, these habits are good and very helpful in us relating to one another. Sometimes, however, We fail in communication with others and we either take things for granted or we even become selfish. I thank you if you have forgiven me for this way of acting. Thanks be to God for forgiving me when I act this way towards him and others.

The GREAT news is that God is not selfish. Jesus was always thinking about us. He was always aware that he was born for a special purpose. He was born in a special way, he was killed and died in a special way. He ROSE again in a way unlike any other....and it was just the beginning. His death was the beginning of our eternal life. His death was the one-time sacrifice which washed away our sins and restored our relationship with God. Thank you, Jesus for your saving act of mercy and love.

I am thankful for my faith, which has been given to me through the power of the Holy Spirit. My family and friends have been a constant encouragement in the process of faith. My religious practices are my way of showing thanks to God for all He has done for me. He has done more for me than I can ever imagine...and I look forward to what else he has planned for me: today, tonight, tomorrow, and into the future.

Thank YOU for taking a moment out of your day to read my blog; Praise God for the chance to "Shout to Him and Sing of His Praise!" Psalm 100