Struggling to Give Thanks, But We Must

With Thanksgiving around the corner, I need to admit something: I’m having a hard time finding something to give thanks for this year.  

For the last few years, I have tried to convince people that the world is moving closer and closer to authoritarianism and embracing ideals directly contrary to the gospel of Jesus Christ. In the end, people did not listen, ignored the warnings or finally decided that authoritarianism was what they wanted.

The re-election of Donald J. Trump as president of the United States of America reinforced my concern. Much of the world now rests with authoritarian rulers – Vladimir Putin in Russia, Xi Jinping in China, and Trump in the U.S. – and their allies.  

God help us!

However, my despair is not all-consuming. After Trump’s election, I wrote a reactionary column calling for all democracy supporters and lovers of an inclusive gospel to resist.  

It was heartening to hear from fellow conspirators and see partnering organizations already working to advocate for democracy and an inclusive gospel. For those reactions, I give thanks.

However, another reaction I’ve had to the election is a need to step away from the political storms of the last few years. Anytime someone feels defeated and disconnected from their fellow humans, I find it an excellent time to do some honest reflection.

As I have sat with my thoughts over the last few weeks, I’ve searched for people and experiences for which I can truly give thanks this Thanksgiving.  

Let me begin with my family. I am so thankful for a partner and children filled with love and compassion for others. 

Missy and my boys are terrific examples of compassionate individuals committed to inclusion and justice for all people — especially the disenfranchised. My family remains an inspiration to me.

I am also thankful for my job. I love my job at Good Faith Media. 

Leading an organization dedicated to an inclusive and just gospel fills my heart and inspires my soul. Addressing the most critical issues at the intersection of faith and culture challenges my thoughts and fills my life with purpose.

However, the best part of working at GFM is my colleagues. Cliff Vaughn, Craig Nash, Starlette Thomas, Cally Chisholm, Stephanie Brueggeman, Tony Cartledge, Roderious Phillips and Missy Randall are the very best in their fields. I am thankful each day I get to work beside such a talented and skillful team.  

In addition to the work and staff, I am thankful for a board that offers me the freedom to lead and their much-needed wisdom to help guide the organization. The board’s commitment to Good Faith Media is apparent in their engagement and input, which makes the organization a vital voice in the public square.  

More personally, I am so grateful for close friends. Missy and I shared our housing mishaps on “Good Faith Weekly,” from the uneven floors to Cat’s adventures. 

Last spring, we purchased a hundred-year-old home that needed a bit of work. After six months, we were finally able to move into the house. 

However, in the interim, our friends opened their doors to us. For their generosity and hospitality, we will always be grateful.

Finally, I am thankful for an open mind and an open heart. As I think about my pilgrimage from the east side of Tulsa, Oklahoma, to where I am today, I cannot express enough gratitude to my parents, teachers, professors, and faith leaders for encouraging me to pursue my curiosity.  

The freedom to be curious empowered me to explore challenging questions and gave me the confidence to take calculated risks. Curiosity also motivated me to dream of a future of possibilities. Instead of looking back, curiosity told me to look forward by learning from history to pursue a better future for everyone.

As Thanksgiving approaches, the staff and I wish our readers, listeners, viewers, and supporters a happy holiday season. May this holiday bring you warmth and love wherever you call home. 

No matter how desperate the world seems, remember you are not alone. A big community of Jesus followers is ready to welcome and stand beside you in our pursuit of inclusion, freedom, and justice for all.

Happy Thanksgiving!