When Resentment Meets Thanksgiving

The sun had not even risen yet and I was already rolling my eyes. I am never less patient than when I am about to go through security at Reagan National Airport in Washington, DC.

I could not place whether the resentment building up inside of me was because I had not had my coffee yet or because Thanksgiving was just not that fun anymore. I would fly across the country to face friends from home who do not really get it, the ritual argument over which parent I will be staying with, and the many essays still due by the end of break. As I made my way through the airport, I attempted to console my dreadful mood with thoughts of mashed potatoes.

When I sat down at my gate, flustered by the inadequate airport coffee options, I felt the Father come in close and whisper in my heart: “Respond to your resentment with gratitude.”

Deep breath in.

Thank You, Jesus, for a life covered in blessing. Thank You for our love story, Thank You for Your Cross. Thank You for community that loves me well. Thank You for this time to be with my family. Thank You for the gift of my education. Thank You for my health and safety, for the opportunity of each breath, and even for this mediocre coffee.

It was maybe thirty seconds, but I felt my gratitude cut through the cloud of complaints that had robbed me of a joyful morning. I closed my eyes and worshipped just like today's Thanksgiving Day reading Psalm, until we boarded, knowing He is good and true, and that my worries were no match for His generosity.

Sister, if you're in the United States, Happy Thanksgiving. For all of us, if this day stirs up chaos or worry for you, let it be a full offering to King Jesus. May He have a seat at our tables, invite us into deep encounter, and harvest new gratitude in us.

"May he grant you a wise heart and abide with you in peace" (Sirach 50:23).

Thank You, Jesus, for a life covered in blessing. // @sarahericksonnClick to tweet

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May His blessing be upon you.