sharing? Growing?

"To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability.  Then he went on his journey."  (Matthew 25;15)

This is Thanksgiving week.  Have you ever stopped to think about all the gifts God has blessed each, and all, of us with?   On Thanksgiving Day we used to say at least one thing we were thankful for just before we said grace for the "feast" we were about to eat.  One thing - can you name one?  What about the gifts God has given - like singing, music, quilting, able to "do" technology - how are you growing and using that gift?

The readings today are about growing and using our gifts.  Deborah is guiding the troops for battle, explaining who will be where doing what.  (Judges 4:7)  Paul is pointing out to the Thessalonians the importance of "putting on faith and love as a breastplate and the hope of salvation as a helmet." (1 Thessalonians 5:8)  This is so we can stay strong AND encourage each other - especially through difficult times.  Jesus is pointing out how two, of the three people, took the gifts given them and doubled said gifts. (Matthew 25:16)  They took the gifts given to them, strengthened them and doubled them.  Are we strengthening the gifts God has given to each, and all, of us?  Are we growing the gift, using the gift?  What are we doing WITH the gift?

There is a LOT going on right now AND it is Thanksgiving.  How are we using the blessings, the gifts God has given us?  There are people living right near each of us who could use some encouragement, even someone to just "notice" them, and maybe some fellowship.  There are caregivers who could use a break AND some encouragement.  There are some singles who would love to be included in fellowship - maybe even a meal.  Something to think about......