Finding Gratitude and Hope in the Season of Preparation.

As we near the end of November, my heart often feels a pull toward gratitude. This time of year, nestled between the celebrations of Thanksgiving and the quiet anticipation of Advent, is a perfect opportunity to pause and reflect on the blessings in our lives.

I’ll admit, finding reasons to be thankful isn’t always easy. Some seasons of life feel heavy, and the pressures of daily routines or unexpected challenges can overshadow the good. But I’ve learned that gratitude isn’t about everything being perfect—it’s about seeing God’s hand in the midst of it all.

"Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus."
(1 Thessalonians 5:18)

This verse is one I return to often, especially when life feels overwhelming. It doesn’t ask us to deny our struggles or pretend that hard days don’t exist. Instead, it encourages us to trust God’s plan and look for His goodness, even when the path ahead seems unclear.

In my own family, we’ve started a tradition of sharing things we’re thankful for during dinner. It’s a small practice, but it’s amazing how those moments of reflection can brighten the darkest days. My kids often surprise me with their simple yet profound observations—thankfulness for a warm meal, a kind friend, or even the beauty of falling leaves.

Another verse that helps guide my heart in this season is Psalm 100:4:
"Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name."

This reminds me that gratitude is a way to draw closer to God. When we thank Him for the blessings in our lives, big or small, we’re acknowledging His goodness and deepening our relationship with Him.

With Advent just around the corner, I find that gratitude also helps prepare my heart for the season of hope. By focusing on God’s faithfulness, I’m reminded that He has already given us the greatest gift of all—Jesus Christ. In the busyness that often comes with the holidays, pausing to give thanks keeps my heart centered on what truly matters.

If you’re finding it difficult to feel grateful right now, I encourage you to start small. Take a moment to thank God for one thing today. It could be something as simple as the warmth of a cup of coffee or the kindness of a stranger. Gratitude has a way of growing when we nurture it.

Reflection:

• What are three things you’re most thankful for today?
• How can gratitude help prepare your heart for the Advent season?

Let’s take this season as an opportunity to cultivate grateful hearts and share God’s light with those around us. After all, every act of gratitude is a way of saying, “Lord, I see You here, and I am thankful.”