From where I stood in January, this Thanksgiving looked like the same gatherings and same parades I enjoyed in previous years. But a pandemic appeared in February and changed our cherished interactions.

Now social distancing, mask wearing, and constant hand washing intrude upon our gatherings or give us reasons not to gather at all. If you’re not a fan of the holiday fanfare, the unexpected adjustments may not change your routine.

But if, like me, you relish the idea of being with family and friends and enjoying your idea of a feast, this year’s version of the holiday is challenging. My siblings and I decided to forgo our usual gathering and connect virtually instead. Whether we’re seated together or apart the meaning of the day remains.

Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever. (Psalm 107:1 NLT)

And yet, being thankful this Thanksgiving may feel out of sorts.

You may have your own pre-pandemic images of what the holidays would look like. Perhaps as you seek to adjust, you’re not sure how much risk you’ll take. I pray you and yours are well.

However, with so much loss of life, loss of livelihood, and with many us feeling a loss of control, we’re all impacted by the virus. Reaching out to someone who’s grieving or in need, or encouraging frontline workers is one way to spend the day.

Phone calls, text messages and virtual chats may feel like awkward ways to share with those we would rather see across a table.

But being thankful this Thanksgiving is a choice.

How are you choosing to be grateful? Do you have a recent accomplishment or an experience bringing you new perspective?

Recurring thoughts of this year’s events bring waves of concern or relief to my heart. But gratitude gives me grit. I’m grateful for my family, friends and the wonderful people I work with each day. I’m thankful for my church’s online services and church members with caring hearts.

And when the waves of life get rough and I don’t know what to expect, I can always expect the faithfulness of God. He is worthy of my praise.

His peace rules the day when I realize“this is the day the Lord has made.” As I trust in His love, I will “rejoice and be glad in it (Psalm 118:24).”

And in doing so, I grab onto hope and lean on the sufficiency of His grace. Because no matter how tough life becomes, who we choose to become matters more. (see 1 Thessalonians 5:17-19)

This Thanksgiving, being thankful is a gift.

Even if life feels out of sorts, the Giver of every good and perfect gift is not out of touch with what we feel. Yes, this year brings much reflection and for many hardship. If you’re in a difficult place, may you experience God’s strength, wisdom and provision as you process your next steps.

But even as we adjust to any restrictions, God is still in control. His grace is full of peace and comfort for those who believe. I pray you’ll join me in giving “thanks to the Lord, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever.” (Psalm 107:1 NLT)