“You shall eat in plenty and be satisfied, and praise the name of the Lord your God, who has dealt wondrously with you. And my people shall never again be put to shame.”

–Joel 2.26

What are you most looking forward to with Thanksgiving? Is it the chance for a break from the routine and school? Is it a time to gather with family you love and visit? Is it the food, all those delicious things you’ve been looking forward to on your plate? In many ways we approach Thanksgiving like we approach everything else in our lives, as a chance to have things for us to enjoy. While that view isn’t wrong it’s not all Thanksgiving is or can be; Thanksgiving asks us to see and understand what we’re given differently, it asks us to see abundance in our lives, it asks us to rejoice in plenty. When we’re tempted to think life is all about getting what we can get before someone else does, or that it’s a competition to achieve, produce, and fear, Thanksgiving reminds us of the generosity of God who gives freely and continually. There’s plenty to go around, there’s enough for everyone, we don’t need to fear running out because it’s in God’s nature to give. The prophet Joel, who we hear this year on Thanksgiving, reminds the people that the time of plague has ended and that God has heard their prayers. All the fears of God’s people, the fear of running out and the fear of ridicule from neighbors is transformed by the God who hears our cries, knows our fears, and in our need provides abundantly. May this week be a time for you to find yourself refreshed, nourished in love, and fed by the God who leads you from the place of fear into the world to rejoice.

NO Pasta Night on Tuesday. We won’t have pasta night this week, but we’ll be back again next Tuesday. Have a safe and joyful Thanksgiving.

On Campus this Week

Tuesday – BSC
I’ll be hanging out in the front of the Caf around 9am. You’re invited to come join me, share anything that’s on your mind, or just say hey on your way to class. Our short Eucharist will take place in Yeilding Chapel at 11:45 am and I hope you’re able to make it this week. I’ll be in the Caf after the service for lunch, so you’re welcome to join me then too.

Wednesday – Samford
No Eucharist this week. Happy Thanksgiving. Hope to see you next week.

Thursday – UAB
I will not be at the Hill Center this week. Happy Thanksgiving. Hope to see you next week.