Serving the High Plains
Serving the High Plains
Religion Columnist
Watching the sun come up this morning, I thought of all the Thanksgiving columns I wrote for 20-plus years. Is there something new to share with readers? Right at that moment the sun popped over the horizon, bathing the mountain in various hues of rose, orange, and purple clouds. I never saw that exact sunrise before because it was a brand new day, never lived before.
We are given the gift of a brand new day every 24 hours. What we choose to do with it is up to us. Before we disregard it, stop and think for a moment and reflect how you will never relive it. No matter if it was the best day of your life or the worst, once it is gone, it is gone.
Back to writing columns, I am always amazed, astonished, and thankful how the Lord always provides the right words at exactly the right time. In Philippians 4:19 we read the words of the Lord sent through Paul, "But my God shall supply all your needs ..." Look at that verse again because God doesn't say He will give us everything we want or ask for, but He does supply our needs. I don't know about you, but there are times I am unsure of what I need.
I know there are many in our community who have great needs such as food and shelter. While we have wonderful organizations like Ministry of Hope to help people, it is important to do something instead of always looking for a handout from others. The people who never lift a finger and blame everyone else for their situation in life are in need of a reality check.
Before you say people in dire economic crisis are to blame for their situation, stop before you speak. None of us can say we know what is best for another person. Only God can do that.
Thanksgiving is upon us once again. I know several people who wish they could skip over the holidays and go straight to next year. Of course that isn't possible, so the next thing is to learn how to cope with the holidays. One way to do that is to be around other people even when you don't feel like it.
For Mark and I it wouldn't be Thanksgiving if we didn't go to First Baptist Church for a free, no strings attached, home cooked meal, and plenty of people to visit with. The last 24 years established a precious tradition for us. We enjoy helping and especially greeting the people who come. I remember last year, the last Thanksgiving for two special ladies who are now in heaven. I remember so many other precious people over the years who were faithful to attend each year, blessing others with their presence.
If you are looking for a place for Thanksgiving this year, join us for dinner from 11a.m until 1 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall at First Baptist Church. I hope to see you there.
Debra Whittington is a longtime resident of Tucumcari. Contact her at: [email protected]