Thankful Thursday

 

 

In case you haven't noticed, Christmas is coming

 

It seems like everybody wants to know what I want for Christmas

 

My kids are asking for gift ideas

 

But I've already been given the greatest gift

 

My Savior left His home in glory, came as a baby, lived among men for 33 years or so, died on a cross, and rose again

 

Now that's a gift worth receiving

 

And I'm so thankful I've been a recipient

 

As Jesus put it in John 11,

 

"Father, I thank You that You hear Me.  And I knew that You hear Me always, but because of the people standing around I said it, that they may believe that You did send Me."

 

He understood that a grateful heart bears witness

 

It has the ability to move others toward belief

 

I have so much to be thankful for

 

I don't need any gifts, no fancifully wrapped presents

 

I just want those around me to believe that God sent His Son for them

 

For me, Christmas is about sharing the gift that's already been given

 

And as I reflect on that gift, I realize that I have no reason not to have an attitude of gratitude

 

So tonight I'm thankful for

 

a loving and loyal wife

 

early morning phone calls from my daughter

 

text pictures from my son letting me know his latest project status

 

Skype calls with my daughter and son-in-law (missed you this evening, Carl!)

 

friends who let me know they pray for me

 

songs that allow me to express my joy

 

God's word that is living and active

 

a job that I can enjoy going to each day

 

Opportunities to serve

 

a God whose ears are always open to my cries

 

Answered prayers