Ah, Thanksgiving! The one day when it's socially acceptable to eat your weight in pie and call it "celebrating blessings." At Blackstone Vineyard Ministries, we love this holiday—not just for the food (though pass the sweet potatoes, please!) but for the reminder that gratitude is more than a one-day affair. It’s a lifestyle, and one we can build together.
So grab your fork and your favorite stretchy pants because we’re diving into three lessons of gratitude inspired by faith, food, and the power of small steps to change the world.
Lesson 1: Gratitude Grows from Little Things
Did you know that gratitude isn’t just a nice thought? It’s a habit—a powerful one! It’s like planting tiny seeds in your heart that grow into giant trees of joy. The Bible tells us, "Give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Not just when the turkey’s juicy or the stuffing’s perfect, but when life serves up leftovers and burned rolls, too.
Start small: every morning, jot down three things you’re thankful for. Is the sun shining? Did your neighbor finally take down their Halloween decorations? Did your toddler's macaroni art look... almost like art? These moments count. Gratitude grows when you water it daily.
Lesson 2: Thankful Hearts, Stronger Communities
At Blackstone Vineyard Ministries, we believe gratitude is contagious. It starts in your heart and spills over into your home, neighborhood, and city. When we share what we’re thankful for, we remind others of their blessings too. A simple “I’m grateful for you” can spark hope, connection, and kindness.
Here’s an idea: during Thanksgiving dinner, go around the table and ask everyone to share one thing they’re thankful for. Yes, even Uncle Joe who insists on talking politics (he’s someone’s blessing... right?). These moments of reflection strengthen our bonds and keep us grounded in what really matters: faith, family, and a shared meal.
Lesson 3: Gratitude is God-Honoring Self-Care
Caring for our bodies, minds, and spirits honors God. As 1 Corinthians 6:19 reminds us, our bodies are temples. Practicing gratitude isn’t just good for the soul—it lowers stress, improves sleep, and can even boost your immune system. Thankfulness helps you face challenges with courage and reminds you that God is always present, even in the chaos of burnt pies and spilled cranberry sauce.
Not feeling it? Start with a gratitude walk! Take ten minutes to stroll around your block and thank God for everything you see: the trees, the smiling neighbor, or even the squirrel stealing acorns. Gratitude isn’t about ignoring life’s struggles; it’s about trusting God’s goodness through them.
This Thanksgiving and Beyond
At BSV, we’re here to remind you that gratitude isn’t just a holiday mood—it’s a habit that shapes how we live, serve, and love. It fuels our mission to provide education, housing, and opportunities to our neighbors in Chicago, because we know every blessing we give multiplies.
So this Thanksgiving, let’s practice gratitude like we mean it. Start small, share big, and remember: the habits you build today are the life you live tomorrow. And yes, have that second slice of pie—it’s Thanksgiving, after all.
From all of us at Blackstone Vineyard Ministries, Happy Thanksgiving! Let’s make it a season of joyful thanks and giving.
If you’re inspired to make a difference this season, consider donating to BSV Ministries or volunteering your time. Together, we can build a stronger, more grateful community.