As the national day of Thanksgiving approaches, I am convinced that not only do we need to be focusing on Who the Lord is and what He is doing, but if we can develop a spirit that seeks to focus on the wellbeing of others, well….let me put it this way, focused on the Lord and sensitive to others will greatly impact our attitude of gratitude.

Come with me on an early departure of a traveling family.

The four suitcases were packed, the lists checked twice, and the kids were loaded into the car as the family headed to the airport.

“Do you think we’ve remembered everything?” Dustin asked his exhausted wife.

“I don’t know, but it is too late now to worry about it!” Liz replied as she glanced at her sleepy children. The family was flying across the country to be with Dusty’s family for the Thanksgiving holiday.

An hour or so later as they were seated at their departure gate, the conversation continued. “You know, Honey,” Liz said quietly, “after all the extra hours you crammed into your work so that you would be able to get away for a few days, after all the expenses to make the trip, after the late night packing and the early morning rising, knowing the lines at the airport, going through security, and everything else, I am not feeling so very thankful at the minute.”

Just then Liz’s phone dinged, so she quickly opened it. “It’s a text from your mom. Let me read it to us. ‘Dusty and Liz, it’s the middle of the night still here. I am crying as I text. I am coming before His presence with thanksgiving and making a joyful noise unto Him. Giving great thanksgiving because in five hours I will get to hug my grandchildren and you folks, too. I am such a thankful Grandma. Love you.’ It was quiet for a moment. Well, if that doesn’t change my heart’s attitude!” Liz said with a smile.

For those who are getting ready to travel as well as those who are planning on staying home! Those who are thankful to the Lord and thankful to be a blessing to others, here’s a great verse to take away with you today. “Come before His presence with thanksgiving, and make a joyful noise unto Him with psalms” (Psalm 95:2).