Rejoicing with Thankfulness

Residency.  This phase of life we are in seems to flood my mind with mixed emotions.  I have to say the emotions have been more like a rollar coaster lately.  Jason started his ICU rotation last week, the day before Thanksgiving and will end the rotation three days after Christmas.  Did I mention that he has the honor of working both Holidays, including the days before and the days after.  Six months ago when we received his schedule, we knew that this rotation which requires about 80+ hours a week would be one that would bring a new challenge to our family.  How could we be so lucky to have this rotation over the Holidays?  Just like anyone, you begin to dread what lies ahead.  It is as if you are down in the dumps before the tough time has even began.

Last week I was attending my MOPS (moms group) group at church when one of the pastors challenged us with these words "Are you thankful?  Regardless of your circumstances, Are you thankful?".  It was as if time froze for that second, and those words continued to echo in my heart.  How could I over look what God has done and what He is doing.  With Thanksgiving a couple days ahead, I knew that it was time to grab ahold of the meaning for this season and begin to thank God for all that He is doing in the midst of this tough phase that was about to begin in our lives.  

The bible verse came to my mind, "give thanks in all circumstances".  The reality of this, and the power in the words, begins when you take your focus off of your challenges and put it onto the positive things that are taking place everyday.  

So my list began.  My marriage is stronger than it was when we started.  My daughter keeps my on my toes and always laughing.  I have the basics of life: food, clothing and shelter.  I have an incredible extended family who supports from a distance.  I have a husband who works 15 hour days, and yet still greets me with excitement and a heart of service.  I have a God who cares about my greatest needs, and as promised me that I don't have to do this alone.

It is during this Holiday Season that I am so thankful for the things that God has blessed me with.  It might not be the tangible things or mass amounts of time, but it is a life filled with Joy from God.  A true attitude of giving thanks.  Today, I am Rejoicing with Thankfulness!