As we approach Thanksgiving, I am reminded of the constant blessings God gives us.  But more importantly, I cannot stop thinking about the one thing that overshadows and actually positions us to receive all that God intends, the gift of Jesus Himself!  "He came to His own people, and even they rejected Him.  But to all who believed Him and accepted Him, He gave the right to become children of God.  They are reborn- not with a physical birth resulting from human passion or plan, but a birth that comes from God." (John 1:11-13)  Receiving Jesus means more than just admitting that He was God's Son, or that He died and was raised from the dead.  It means that we are giving ourselves in total surrender to the One who is given to us.  No matter what circumstance brings one to that point of surrender, the ultimate expression of thanks for the grace of God in Jesus is to renounce everything and anything that we're holding onto, die to selfish control, and follow Him.  That's what He wants, and nothing less will do!  I'm thankful, but if I don't surrender, what does my thanksgiving mean?  Not much, really.  But if I surrender everyday to His leadership and lordship, my life becomes a daily expression of worship to God.  That's what discipleship is all about, and the healthiest way to say, "Thank You, Lord!"