Last Wednesday I was at Cub Scouts with my son who is nearly seven years old. The Cub Master asked the group of boys what holiday is next. My son’s hand shot up, and he was called on. He answered Christmas. The Cub Master in good form replied, “Yes, Christmas is coming soon, but there is still one more holiday before that one.” My son then answered Thanksgiving. The Cub Master, expecting a specific answer, asked, “What happens at Thanksgiving?” My son answered, “We thank God.” Cub Master, “Wow! That’s right! And, what else do we do?” My son, “Eat good food!” This last answer was the segue the Cub Master was looking for to make an announcement. If you can’t tell, my heart was bursting with pride and beaming with gratitude. He caught the true meaning of Thanksgiving.

Therefore, imitate God like dearly loved children. Live your life with love, following the example of Christ, who loved us and gave himself for us. He was a sacrificial offering that smelled sweet to God. (Ephesians 5:1-2)

I am always amazed at the innocent imitation of children. With their limited context they simply do what they see and hear. In the above passage, Paul is instructing the Ephesians to be like children in this way, imitating God by following Jesus’ example. In the wholeheartedness of children is the willingness to love unreservedly. As Thanksgiving approaches, let’s look to love one another like children, imitating the ways of Jesus, and may our gratitude be as genuine as the thanks is of little ones we care for.

Grace and peace,

Brook