3:330 – It’s More Than Turkey

#faithbites #faithjourney turkey

Setting

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day in the US and my Facebook feed is filled with people preparing for their feast. Most people are going to be cooking a Turkey. It doesn’t matter if it’s roasted, grilled, fried, or baked, it’s a major staple of the day. It’s so popular, many people call it Turkey Day. While Turkey is great as are all the sides, the day isn’t about the food. It’s about being thankful for our friends, family, and everything God has given to us.

This is like our faith. An old friend said being Christian isn’t just about getting together and singing songs. It’s about committing to Christ’s teachings. It’s helping ourselves and others to be better people. Some churches turn into God clubs. Where God is second to getting together and fellowship. Just like the Turkey is a sign of things to be thankful for. As we are thankful, we need to remember who we are thankful for. That everything we have, everything we are, is because of Christ Jesus. We get to be saved because of him.

Scripture

• Mark 10:27 – Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.”
• Hebrews 12:2 – Fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith. For the joy set before him he endured the cross, scorning its shame, and sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
• John 10:28-30 – I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; no one will snatch them out of my hand. My Father, who has given them to me, is greater than all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand. I and the Father are one.

Reflection

I love to sing God’s praises. Seeing people at church and learning with them is an absolute joy. I have to remind myself that while these things are awesome and a great joy, the reason I’m here is because of Jesus. He gave me second and eternal life as I couldn’t do it myself. I give him all the thanks and praise I can which isn’t enough for what he’s given me.

Our scriptures show that God can do everything, has done everything, and will do everything for us. Jesus is the pioneer and perfecter of faith. We are along for the ride and get all of the rewards from his sacrifice. As you worship this week, in whatever form it is, think about the message, the words coming out of your mouth, and the words on your heart. Is it giving thanks and praise to Jesus. If not, maybe it’s time to switch the focus.

We all know that this year is different and I hope you all have a safe and Happy Thanksgiving. Remember as you are eating your turkey or your leftover sandwich, that it’s not just about the Turkey. Take a moment to truly be thankful for everything you have. Give that Thanks to God.

Challenge

Be truly present in worship this week. Think about how God is the reason and the purpose for everything. Worship with intent.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank you for everything. I don’t have words to express how truly thankful we are for you and what you have done for us. Often we get lost in the singing and the pomp and circumstance. We look at the trimmings as the main course. You are the main course, the main purpose. Help us to always keep you at the center, even when it’s hard. Forgive us when we slide as only you can. We love you, Lord Jesus. Thank you. In Your Name we pray, Amen.