The blessing

 

Joel 2:21-27

A reading from the prophet Joel is appropriate for today, Thanksgiving Day. There had been much tragedy surrounding the people of God. As Joel describes it, this was God's judgement against the people. They had turned from the Lord. Their leaders were anything but godly. And God acted against them, apparently, in the form of locusts that destroyed their lands. God's judgement is sure. But so is God's lovingkindness. The prophet tells the people in Chapter 2 to "be glad and rejoice." Actually, he tells the soil to be glad before he tells the people. Why be glad? "Because the Lord has done great things!" The renewed pastures could tell this story of God's power. The abundant rain could as well. These are signs God has not turned away. God's people, now able to "eat in plenty" and "satisfied" are to "praise the name of the Lord." Abundant crops and full bellies are wonderful signs of life, gifts from the Lord. But the great thing God has done is be God. In the midst of suffering, pain and turmoil, God is still God. Some of our circumstances are by our own doing. Some just because we're alive. Either way, our circumstances do not change who God is. And since God is faithful, we give thanks. We give thanks, today especially, for all that we call blessings. Our families and our health. Maybe there's a new job or opportunity we're sure God gave us. Perhaps the holiday spirit has renewed an old friendship or helped bring healing to a broken relationship. You name it. It's your testimony. But don't lose sight of the greatest blessing today. God is God. If we never receive another blessing, God would still be enough. God is the blessing. Be glad and rejoice today and always for the blessing that God is. Happy Thanksgiving. Stay blessed...john