Thankful Thursday

Over two months have slipped by since I last took the time to pause and reflect by posting my expression of gratitude in this way

It wasn't for lack of things for which to give thanks  

Indeed, God has continued pouring out His steadfast love

and He shows me His faithfulness every day

when I last wrote, my mother-in-law was still with us on this earth

however, just a few days later, she passed from this life into the presence of Jesus

I'm thankful for God's comforting presence over these last two months

thankful for the grieving process

thankful for the hope I have as a follower of Jesus that Mom is enjoying her new home

thankful for His shed blood which has cleansing power 

thankful God clothes me in Christ's righteousness through belief in His name

Life goes on

its flavor has changed a bit

new routines fall into place

old routines I counted on for so long slip away

I'm thankful God is my anchor

thankful my security is found in Him

thankful for this opportunity to walk along with my wife as she journeys through challenging days

I often feel inadequate 

this is new territory for me

but God is familiar with grief

and He promises to never leave me or forsake me

for that I am very thankful!