Many of my friends that I've connected with on Facebook have been doing the month of thankfulness, in which they have posted daily something for which they are thankful. That was a great idea. I didn't participate, not because I'm not thankful, but just because, well, just because I didn't. However, I thought I might encourage you to be in an attitude of thankfulness, not for the month of November, but for the rest of your life. WOW! That's a lot! You're right. However, let's take a moment to examine that.
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| Covered bridge tour in Kentucky |
James makes an interesting claim: "Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights". (James 1:17) I am not going to exegete this, but just know that what I'm saying is not out of context. James is acknowledging that every good thing comes from a good and loving God, is authored by Him, and is a part of His grand design. Of course, humanity has corrupted what He has called good in many different ways. But, I'm not talking about that. I'm pointing to all good "things", whether experiences or observations. For instance, one of my favorite past times is to drive into the countryside with my wife and just look. When I do that, invariably I feel my spirit lift and I find myself breathing deeply and relaxing. What a good gift from God! Some of you may know I enjoy jazz, especially instrumental jazz that focuses on trumpets. Love that stuff. It gives a bounce to my step and a lift to my spirit. What a great gift from God! I watch my wife from across the room interacting with others and I think, "I am truly blessed!" What a wonderful gift from God! We were able to provide care for my wife's parents in their last days that not everyone has the privilege to do. God is good! What a great gift from God! I have a job that, yes, is sometimes frustrating but is most often inspiring. Wow! Can you believe God would give such a thing to me? What an excellent gift from God!
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| James Morrison, Ausie jazz trumpeter extrordinaire |
See, if we accept the premise that all good things are from above - note, ALL good things - then, we have so much to be thankful for. The list should go on forever. So, yes, during this season of thanksgiving, know that you have much to be thankful for. But, don't stop there. Live your life with thankfulness. When you see beautiful colors, when you experience those moments that inspire and uplift you, when you even encounter rough patches and discover the small thread of "light" there, be thankful. God is gifting you with many good things.
May God make this day and everyday a day filled with good things. And, may we see them and give Him thanks!
