It’s November 22 today. The day before Thanksgiving. If you’re sitting at work today, you’re watching the clock and wondering how early you can leave without having to log PTO. If you’re standing in line at the grocery store, I’m sorry. I’ve been there, too. I have faith we’ll plan better next year.
News outlets will keep you up-to-date on weather conditions as some of you head out over the hills and through the woods. They’ll follow-up that report with projections about Black Friday and Cyber Monday, and provide tips for getting the best holiday deals.
After running down those top stories, in the “On this day in history” segment, they’ll tell you that today marks the anniversary of JFK’s assassination. The report will touch on the grassy knoll, the magic bullet, and the Zapruder film. A live shot of Dealey Plaza will most likely be shown.
There are lots of headlines today. But just one is running through my mind:
It would have been Melissa’s 42nd birthday today.
It’s been nearly 35 years since her death, and yet every November 22, I still wonder, Why? As in: Why didn’t we get the miracle?
On this side of Heaven, I know I’ll never be able to answer that question. Bad things happen to good people. Good people like you and me. Good people like my sister.
But here’s the thing: I know that God uses all things for good. All things. Even all the No Good Very Bad Things. In Romans 8:28 it says, “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” That’s the headline I need running through my mind today.
No experience is ever wasted. That heartbreaking thing you don’t talk about? Maybe one day you’ll write a book about it. That redhead you said goodbye to nearly 35 years ago? She’ll never be far from your mind.
But maybe one day…you’ll tell your redheaded son about her.
Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
Sally