In the United States, Thanksgiving is traditionally a day of feasting with family. But changing circumstances may lead us to rethink our holiday traditions.

It happened to Sharon Randall during a year in which her mother died, her father-in-law had to be moved to a rest home, and her husband was undergoing treatment for cancer. As the Thanksgiving holiday drew near, the Randall family decided it was time for a new approach. So instead of preparing a feast just for themselves, they invited people outside their family circle to join them. The next year they expanded the guest list even more.

"If your family has changed and you need a new tradition," says Sharon, "look around. You're not alone. Invite someone to join you for Thanksgiving. Or volunteer to help serve at a church or shelter or community dinner."

Those are challenging words for every follower of Jesus Christ. Perhaps it's time to start a new tradition for your next holiday feast by inviting people outside your usual circle, or by serving those in need. In Luke 14:12-14, Jesus said that when we include those who can't repay us, we are blessed in a special way. Sharing the feast is Thanksgiving indeed!  — David C. McCasland