Before pouring gravy on your turkey or slicing another piece of pumpkin pie, express your thankfulness during this holiday season.
Erik Nelsen, director of Spiritual Life, noted three ways to do so during Grand Canyon University’s online Chapel on Monday (view the livestream here).
“No. 1, take note of what you’re thankful for,” Nelsen said. "Take some time to think about what is a blessing or a gift in your life that you have that you could show some appreciation to.”
He suggested it could merely be the opportunity for an education, good health, family and friends, a relationship or a job.
“No. 2, take note of who you are thankful for,” Nelsen continued. “ … It could be family members or friends that we interact with, professors, classmates, and we know that there are some in our lives who are faithful and care deeply about us and really show us a lot of love through their friendship and support. I want to encourage you to let those people know how they have impacted you.”
Nelsen said that expressing a simple message could change someone’s life.
And, “the third thing, consider ways that you can give or spend on someone else,” Nelsen said. “What would it look like for you this fall to demonstrate giving to someone else?”
That could include giving gifts, giving time or support for those in need.
“Consider how you can be a blessing at a dark time, but with the light of Christ," Nelsen said. "You never know what can happen when you take that step to say, ‘How can I look to others and help meet their needs and demonstrate the love of Christ?’"
Nick Ely of Christ Church will be the guest speaker at the next Chapel on Nov. 27.
GCU News Senior Writer Mark Gonzales can be reached at [email protected]
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