Friendsgiving
In one city in Southeast Asia, there are Christian workers from many different countries. During Thanksgiving week they gather for what they call “Friendsgiving”, a time to gather for a meal and recall God’s blessing of friendship.
Celebrating Thanksgiving overseas often has been a time to share culture as local friends are keen to understand American culture and holidays. It is also an opportunity to bridge to the gospel story. Because thanksgiving was new to many of our local friends, many more than we personally invited would show up for a party. We would usually explain what Thanksgiving meant from American culture and ask our guests to write down things they were thankful for.
Make it stand out
Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.
Here’s an idea:
Share the spirit of Thanksgiving with local friends and team members by making a Thanksgiving tree. Draw a tree on a large piece of paper and hang it on the wall, or use sticks gathered from outdoors to make a tree that you place in a container of some sort. Prepare colorful leaves. Punch holes in them and attach a string if hanging them on a stick tree. Place the leaves in a basket so your guests can choose one. Let them write something they are thankful for on the leaves (or write it for them). Attach it to your tree. Then share what you are thankful for to provide a bridge to the Gospel.
As I was writing this blog, thanks to Google, pictures from 6 years ago flashed on my phone from just such a party! Giving thanks certainly set’s our heart and focus on what Jesus has done and invites us to join Him in completing the Great Commission.
J serves on the staff of GlobalGrace