We should give thanks on more than a single day noted by a calendar, the government, and our employers. Why? God would have us to give thanks daily, in all circumstances, not just on a consecrated day (1 Thessalonians 5:18). But there is also more to it than that…

If we save all our thanks for a single day, and when that day comes tragedy hits a family member or loved one, so much for your day of  “Thanksgiving.” I say this because last week it was hard to have the kind of Thanksgiving we wanted to. It was hard to laugh, have fun, and joke around with each other when you know that your own family members are mourning the loss of friend.

Tragedy struck a George West, TX, family on Thanksgiving morning. A father and mother lost their 19-year old son. Friends lost a friend. All we could do was give thanks for the very lives we possess, but that doesn’t do much for the hurting. In fact, it probably pretty pathetic. It’s tantamount to saying, “At least we’re not dead!” Sure, we should appreciate the life God has given us, but in the face of tragedy isn’t the time to revel in it.

Thanksgiving is more than a day. I appreciate those who speak of life as Thanks-living. In fact, Justin Gerhardt cited this very thought here. Such ones don’t simply give thanks on a Thursday in late November. They understand that thankfulness is an art set aside for each and every day. That way, when the unexpected happens, their “day” of “thanks” isn’t lost.

I am glad we were there with family on Thursday. I am glad I could hug and console a niece who was hurting. I am glad that doors were opened up to discuss things that matter most in life. My day wasn’t shot because I’ve learned, though I’ve not yet mastered, that we should give thanks more than one day a year.