There is a wonderful little book called “The Way of the Pilgrim.” It is the story of a 19th century Russian peasant who lost everything but his Bible and a verse that was stuck in his mind. In 1st Thessalonians, Paul says, “Pray without ceasing.”
The book chronicles the adventures of this man who wanders through Russia with few possessions while he tries to live out that dictum. It is hard to do–even for someone who dedicates his life to trying it.
Paul also says in the same sentence, “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
In the US, we are about to celebrate the holiday of Thanksgiving. It’s sort of the time when the harvest is in and we can give thanks for the blessings of God who has provided us with food for the next year.
We, in fact, really don’t celebrate that exactly. We have big meals. Eat way too much. Watch some football. And get ready for the Christmas buying season. Many of my friends like to say that we are a “Christian nation.” Actually, I think we are a commercial nation where a lot of Christians live. (Note: using Christian as a noun, not as an adjective.)
Even when I am most busy, I’ll find myself pausing for a moment and thanking God for the many blessings in my life. It sort of just pops into my mind when I least expect it sometimes.
So for my American readers, here’s a prayer. Pause a few times today and tomorrow and remember your blessings. And the One who made them possible. After that, I suppose you can go out on Friday and “support the American (or Chinese or whatever) economy” 😉
Blessings.
Faith Venture 
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