Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything; for this is god’s will for you in Christ Jesus (NASB)
Weeds sprouted through the cracks of my bathroom floor. Walls where cupboards should have been, were empty. One small sink base sat under my small window facing the road. I could have been unhappy, but I was thankful. I knew I was right where God wanted me to be.
Previously, I had rented a nice four bedroom, two -and- a – half bath home which I wanted to buy, but it was not in God’s plan.
I knew I was in this trailer park for a reason. There were hurting people who needed encouragement and a helping hand.
My young daughter made friends and the little children gathered at our porch as she played games with them. God was working in our midst in the smallest ways.
It was there that I learned how to barter. I drove for a business and some of my clients ere handymen. One was willing to barter. I drove him in exchange for help in repairing my home. It was a slow process and Thanksgiving was approaching. I would not be spending the day with my mom and sisters that year.
The Lord led me to invite a few neighbors for our Thanksgiving meal. One had lost a son; one’s wife had passed away and another had no other invitation. Even though my home was in disarray, I invited them to come, and they all accepted.
One by one each arrived and brought what they could to share. We all sat at the small table while floors remained unfinished and the sink-base as well and gave thanks for the food and fellowship God had provided. Losses were not mentioned but we all laughed and had a good time until it was time to go home.
Even though that Thanksgiving took place many years ago, I still give thanks for it. It is a memory I shall always cherish.
