Hope in Tough Times

Lord, as we approach tomorrow and the holiday of Thanksgiving, there are many who cry out for help, from the place of despair. Bad news comes at us from all directions. The whole world is filled with conflict and economic depression. Families in our towns struggle to meet their physical and emotional needs. For many, there seems to be no hope. Others of us are blessed with warm homes and food on the table. Some of us have homes filled with reminders of your love. I thank you, Lord, for the abundance that is mine. I pray that you will use what I have to reach out to others. I pray that you will use the love you have given me to shine your light to others, both near and far. You have a purpose here, Lord. Let your Word speak. Let it do your work:

Psalm 4
6 "There are many who say, 'Who will show us some good?
Lift up the light of your face upon us, O LORD!'
7 You have put more joy in my heart
than they have when their grain and wine abound.
8 In peace I will both lie down and sleep;
for you alone, O LORD, make me dwell in safety."

Grateful

Lord, Jesus, I am grateful.  My thankful heart overflows with gratitude for all you have done in my life,  the blessings you have given, the grace you have offered, and the availability of your presence to me. You have opened my heart to worship you, which is the greatest joy of my life, and you have given me the desires of my heart.  Yet, I was made to live for you, and I am an infant in that.  During this time of thanksgiving and this advent season, I pray you will continue to open my heart to others.  Open my eyes to see those around me, so that I reflect your love and your acceptance. May I show justice more and more every day in your world. Heal my heart. Restore my broken image of myself, so that I have the vision to see others as you would see them.
Mark 32-33 "The scribe said to Him, 'Right, Teacher; You have truly stated that He is one, and there is no one else besides Him; and to love Him with all the heart and with all the understanding and with all the strength,  and to love one's neighbor as oneself, is much more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.'”