Seasons of Thanksgiving

This time of year, we stop and think about everything in our lives which cause us to be thankful. We are blessed by God even if in the midst of pain and hardship. If nothing else, we can be thankful that we've made it another year- and look ahead to the future. Only God knows what lies ahead, but one thing is certain: all good things come right from the hand of God.

Just as I used to make a list for Santa as a kid, here is my list for God of all the reasons I am thankful:

His goodness and His great gift of sacrifice in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ- The Ultimate expression of God's love for mankind. The only payment in full for my sin from the only spotless one who could accomplish this work. That God Himself would reach down to mankind still amazes me.

My family. We are blessed. I've seen death this year, but I also see new life coming. There's been hardship, pain, comfort, and deep joy. Our friendships are numerous and rich, many spanning decades. In a world of temporary relationships, my life has been enriched by the blessing of those who love me and are loved by me. When you count your family as your friends as well- all the better!

The future. There's a wedding and a baby ahead! More friends to make, more opportunities to display the love of Christ and to see Him at work in our world. I never cease to be amazed as I watch God care for those down here- and even more amazed when folks write off His goodness as coincidence.

Doing what I love. Sure, this includes work. What a gift to serve others as your full time profession. But also blogging here. To have so many kind readers- well, that also amazes me and makes me thankful.

What are you thankful for? As you reflect on that question, may each of you have a blessed and wonderfully peaceful Thanksgiving day!

Occupational Hazard

Maybe it is just an “occupational hazard”. Or maybe its just the way life is at the moment. Regardless, it seems as if I’m hearing that many friends and family members are currently overwhelmed by the circumstances of life. Does it seem that your situation is more than you can bear? Do fear and worry consume you when you think about the problem or the future? Certainly, you are not alone. The saints and heroes of the Old Testament had to deal with the same stuff.

Look at Joshua. He was eventually appointed the commander of Moses, and then was later designated his successor. And what a charge he had! Lead an unruly people whose hearts tended to stray from the Lord, and conquer the strong enemies of the land. No small task. Amazingly, the following admonition is repeated throughout the book of Joshua:

“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:8-9 NIV)

This theme of trusting God in the face of fear is repeated throughout the book for a reason. Joshua struggled with fear, yet he was the man God called to do the work that needed to be done. We are in the same position today.

Let’s face it. Life can be really hard at times. In the middle of a difficult season, it is very easy to forget God’s promises to us or even that He cares about us. Yet, that does not take away from the fact that our Lord has given each of us something to do; something that in the process will be used to conform us to the image of Christ. Certainly, Jesus promised to always be with us, even to the end. We must take him at his word. The only other choice leads to a life of unrest in the deep places of our hearts.

So, what shall it be? Let’s lock arms together- friend to friend- praying for and encouraging one another. Remind your friends of God’s promises and His faithfulness to us. Let’s stay strong and not give up, doing what He has put before us for His glory and His honor.

From Laughingstock to Increased Stock?

The transformation of Paradise Pier continues. As the Imagineers begin to reshape California Adventure into a park worthy of the Disney name, the challenges they face are numerous. How to do this and stay within budget? How to transform the park into one more people wish to visit? How to redeem the park from a history that includes being the laughingstock of the industry- one played for laughs by the Simpsons?

The task is far more monumental and the implications deeper than Disney will admit. At risk is the reputation of the Disneyland Resort, not Disneyland park. And the money that should flow from the expansion.

Walt's Kingdom will always be a sentimental favorite. But can the Imagineers transform California Adventure into a park that allows the resort to hold its own with its younger American cousin? A revamped park is a must for Disney's investment to really pay off. Future plans include adding more hotels and hotel rooms, an expanded Downtown Disney, and an eventual third park. Without the "blessing of size" and sitting in the middle of an unattractive city, Disney has to work very hard to convince travelers outside of California to spend their hard earned money here. California Adventure 2.0 must persuade the public that the suits are serious about making the Golden State resort one that truly shines. It's their last chance- and there will be no other. Fooled once, maybe. Fooled twice, never.

(Art copyright The Walt Disney Company.)