It is a struggle nearly every week to decide what to write about. Usually, I have something in mind for much of the week, but when Tuesday arrives again, the words won’t cooperate so I end up writing about something totally different. This week, there is no such difficulty. As the U.S. Thanksgiving holiday is this Thursday, I want to post some of the things I am thankful for this year.

• My family – I don’t get to see them often since we all live thousands of miles apart, but they are the best family a girl could ask for!
• My friends, some of whom feel like family. – I cannot believe how blessed I am in my friendships with folks all over the world. This year has brought some new friendships that I am incredibly grateful for. In some difficult moments, they have reminded me that I am seen and known and loved more than I sometimes realize.
• Technology – I know “zoom fatigue” is a thing, and I look forward to face to face meetings being the norm again, to in-person church with a hug and chat over tea afterward. However, I’m so grateful for the technology that has made it possible to stay connected to others during this crazy year and has also allowed me to see and talk to my family and friends around the world over the years.

• Derry (Londonderry) – I love this city, and I still have to remind myself sometimes that I actually live here. What a journey it has been to get here, and I am so thankful that God has brought me here. I can’t wait to see what the future holds. I’m sure there will be hard times (more than there’s already been), but today I’m just so grateful for how God has woven my story to bring me to this place.
• Music – What a powerful way to connect with people and with God. I’m grateful for my guitar and for the keyboard I’ve been given. I’m thankful for the opportunity to serve in worship with my Belfast church during this season and for other opportunities to bless others with the things God has given me.
• Partnership – I am thankful for the people on my team in Belfast, and for the group I’ve connected with here in Derry. I look forward to exploring the ways we can partner to bring God’s light and hope to this land. I am also so very thankful for the involvement of people around the world who believe in the work I do and partner with me through prayer and finances. I would not be here and could not do what I do without them!
• God – Last in this list but above (and woven throughout) all the other things is God. I am grateful for His love, grace, peace, presence, joy, strength, guidance, provision, and so much more. There is not space to tell of all He’s done that is worthy of mention and praise. But He is the reason I am me, the reason I’m here, and the reason I want to spend my days seeing His kingdom come and His will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Without Him, everything is meaningless. Thank you, God, for who you are and all you do.

What are you celebrating this week? Even if your home doesn’t celebrate this particular date, “it is good to give thanks to the Lord…” (Psalm 92:1).