(This post was written by Chuck Carringer, Pastor of Family Ministries)

Like most families this week, we will celebrate Thanksgiving. It’s interesting that I enjoy holidays more the older I become. I am not exactly certain why I do, but I do. I love the traditions and experiences surrounding holidays that have become part of our family fabric.

Parents, what an opportunity to establish traditions and reinforce values that are vital to your family. I want my children to be thankful, grateful, and appreciative. We have a blessed life in so many ways. The attitude and spirit that I want my children to develop (and pass on to their kids some day) is that our thankfulness is not based on circumstances but rather our faith. Certainly I realize that circumstances impact and influence our feelings and happiness, but as Christ followers, we have hope and assurances that transcend circumstances.

This year, let’s make sure our kids understand (as always our children learn more from what we do, the lives we model, than what we say) the source of our thankfulness, the Lord Jesus Christ. I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Are you thankful?