GratiTuesday---Two Kinds of Lists

     I love lists.  What I love most about lists is checking off what I've completed on my ("to do") lists.  Such satisfaction!  My children are big list-makers, so is my husband.  I guess you could call us a list-making family!
     I've been thinking about lists lately.  Thanksgiving lists and Christmas lists, to be specific.  Everyone is familiar with the "What I want for Christmas List".  Kids love those.  My children write theirs every year with great anticipation.  Making the "list" is half the fun!!
     There is also the Thanksgiving list-- the  "What I am Thankful for" list.  This one is not as popular, but so important.  This is the list where we "count our blessings"--where we remember to be thankful for things we have NOW, not for things we WISH we had. 
     I was thinking (during my husband's sermon on thanksgiving) how appropriate it is that we celebrate Thanksgiving before, and in close proximity to Christmas.  Thanksgiving is a great reminder to be content and grateful for what the Lord has given us---this before all the hustle and bustle of materialism that will be in full swing about the time our thanksgiving feasts turn into turkey sandwiches. 
     I encourage you (and you can encourage your children--Go here if you want some cute and colorful lists your children and others can fill in.) to make your "Thanksgiving List" before you make (or finish) your "Christmas Wish List".  It just might affect this things you ask for! :)

"...for I have learned to to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.  I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do everything through Him who gives me strength."     Philippians 4:ll(b)-13