happy thanksgiving

I've been trying not to think about the fact that today is Thanksgiving. If I allow myself to think too much, I run the risk of losing all composure not knowing when it could be regained again. And, as you know having a child see you lose it makes for a rough day and a lot of back pedaling.

I do love this time of year in my culture and I do want to reflect on thankfulness. Of course there are many things to be thankful for. There are all the obvious things but I want to share something more, something I have never experienced before.
This year I am so thankful for the people of Hands at Work and a community of support I have here in Mozambique. I fight tears just reflecting on the love and support I have felt from many.
It seems as an organization we talk about “community” and what it means to be part of a “faith community.” And, like many things, it’s easy to sit around talking about good theories and the way things should be, right? I am thankful that I have been able to be part of more than just talk. Over the course of the last 8 months I have shared many trials and triumphs with a few from Hands at Work who have been able to be here in Moz with me, and with many more through text messages and emails.
We have a phrase here that has been way over used, “Estamos juntos”, “we are together.” I used to sort of chuckle as it was said so often BUT recently I’ve seen it played out in my life. There have been many difficult things going on and it’s been remarkable to feel the love and support of people, who just because we believe in the same things, are now walking a difficult road with me. They have chosen to help me carry my burden and fight my cause with me. This, I marvel at!
We’re obviously not perfect, and yes we sit around talking about how to care for the vulnerable and what our role is in caring for the poor, but in that we respond the BEST we know how and we do it together. Because we, as an organization believe that “in the counsel of many there is wisdom,” I turn to this when I’m alone and in need of discernment. I am now praising the Lord with joyful thanksgiving that I am experiencing the body of Christ chasing after the Lord’s heart which is caring for the poor and vulnerable and loving one another. It’s a beautiful thing to be a part of. I am thankful for the beautiful people who have been drying my tears and walking this road with me! I am SO THANKFUL for YOU!
[I tried to get Nede to sing a song, “Thank you Jesus” in her 3 languages, but, at the beginning she started singing her favorite—Happy Birthday (she must sing Happy Bday at least 15 times/day!) I am also not sure my uploading is working but I hope you can see a glimpse of her sweetness!]
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! Enjoy every bite of whatever fills your stomach today and love on those around you. This done beautifully is so worthy of praise!