Last Sunday in our pre-service prayer time, a prayer of
thanks was shared. Sometimes, without intent, our prayers may sound
routine, yet this one stood out. Along with the usual requests we would expect,
like thanks for God’s forgiveness, protection, the message, the speaker, the
worship, our health, and those who are ill, came a reminder. That reminder was
to always thank God for the victories, the blessings, the healing's, and all
that was good in our week, and our lives. It is easy to ask Father God for
things we need, or want, yet many times we forget to thank Him for our daily
bread. That is, all He gives us.
In our daily lives, we say thank you countless times each
week. We thank a server at a restaurant, our spouse for a coffee or a meal, a
friend for a compliment, even perhaps a stranger who opens a door for us. If
this is so easy for the people in our lives, I wonder why many find it so
difficult to thank our Lord, for the very sight in their eyes, and the air in
their lungs. Maybe, it’s because we as a people can’t see Him. Oh we see the
evidence of His presence, but that’s different, and perhaps it’s just not
enough.
So, here is my encouragement. Starting today, look around
you with open eyes. See God’s majesty in the fall colors, in the bountiful
harvest at our local markets. Feel the autumn sun on your face in the
afternoon, and draw a long slow breath of clean air. Wrap your arms around your
loved ones, family and friends alike. Tell your employer that you are thankful
for your job, even on the tough days. Thank your doctor for their care for your
health. Start saying grace before every meal, giving thanks for the food on
your plate, and for the hands that prepared it. Find even the smallest of
gestures to let those around you know that you are thankful for them. In all of
these things and a thousand more, offer two little words to God that say,
Father I acknowledge that I need you for everything today. Just say Thank You,
and you will surely realize the value of two little words.
Happy Thanksgiving, and to all whom read this, Thank You.
Mike Shindruk
www.mastershandministry.blogspot.ca
No comments:
Post a Comment