Since my October 8th birthday coincides with either the week of Thanksgiving or the day itself, it has always felt extra special. At a time when we consider our many blessings, I am also reminded that God gave me the gift of life. We are not random creations but chosen by God to be uniquely who we are.
On the evening that I was born, my Dad rode his bicycle to a London, Ontario hospital. Mom and Dad were not rich. Dad was attending London Bible Institute and working long shifts at Canada Bread. Now a child was entering the equation. My parents often told me that before I was born, someone gave them clothing for a baby girl. This occurred long before modern technology could determine the sex of a child before birth, but God knew precisely that a girl child was on her way.
God provided for me before I was born but didn’t stop there. Over and over, he has met my needs and those of my family. Sometimes it has taken both courage and faith to believe in what I could not yet see. God often works outside the box, answering prayers in ways I could not possibly imagine. Why not? He is the creator of the universe, with infinite knowledge and power.
This year, our adult children and sons-in-law gathered on Sunday to celebrate both Thanksgiving and my birthday. One of my greatest joys is having all ten of us together. My family spoiled me, as always, with thoughtful birthday gifts, including the lovely blue rug now gracing our living room floor. When we sat down to eat, my daughter, Hannah, asked us to each name something we were thankful for. This has become a tradition, a time to reflect on the many blessings we have. All of us have so much. As my pastor says, many of the best gifts are free. We only need to recognize them.
When my Dad rode his bicycle to the hospital, he likely felt many emotions. Perhaps he wondered how a baby would impact his already hectic life. However, Dad knew that God provided. He understood gratitude. At Thanksgiving and my birthday, I know that God is my Jehovah Jireh, my provider, who bestows life and all that is good.
Happy Thanksgiving!