Tarry at the Table

Donna Zangara / Executive Director of Next Generation Ministries

All this month in the Children’s Ministry we are giving “Shout Outs” with our K-5th grade kids and having a “Parade of Thanks” with our preschool-aged children.

Sometimes a lesson can seem so basic. But I have to tell you that these sweet formational lessons that we are teaching kids can be very profound reminders for the adults that are teaching the lessons.

As we enter this month of November heading towards Thanksgiving, it is as good a time as any to remind ourselves of some very basic truths:

1. A thankful heart is an attitude choice; it’s a discipline. It’s something you actively pursue.

2. Thankfulness is a fruit of God. It is a holy virtue. These virtues take lots of time to develop and mature. Give this new fruit time to grow.

3. Practicing gratitude produces another fruit of the Holy Spirit, JOY!

Our Jesus has set our table with a feast for the soul. This feast is elaborate and an abundant meal. It is not a drive-thru or fast food. He desires for us to recline with Him. Find enjoyment, laugh, talk, and tarry at the table a good long while.

Jeremiah 31:14 “I will feast on the good gifts of the Lord.”

A prayer of thanksgiving …

Holy Father,

Thank You for this reminder that You are a good Father who blesses His children with good gifts. Thank You that You call us Holy. You anoint our heads with oil and have set us apart. I desire to be fully filled by Your Spirit so an outpouring of gratitude will be coming out of me. I pray for my soul to feast through You by an abundance of Your Word, anointing, and gladness. May it be done in me as it is being done in heaven.

In Jesus’ high and holy name.