Dear Christa—
Sometimes thankfulness is
simply an acknowledgment and realization that there is much to appreciate in
life. Then, sometimes thankfulness can produce a passion—like with the Apostles
and others after them—who were and are so focused on the redemption of Christ
that it spurs them on to heights of deep emotions.
But, one thing in the range
of thankfulness—true gratitude takes us out of ourselves—we a people who are naturally bent to look within ourselves instead of outward.
Since the time of our first
parents—in that perfect garden—looked first to themselves and down through all
these ages, we all have the tendency to look first within—to consider ourselves—myself—before
others. I see it clearly day by day in my thoughts, my words, my actions.
And yet—that is not how Christians
should be characterized. The Bible is plain—the world “will know we are
Christians by our love.” Love takes our focus beyond ourselves. We are expected
to love and perhaps love itself begins with a thankful heart.
So, on the days that thankfulness
does not well up in us, it is right to will it into our thoughts. We are much
blessed this day and everyday.
Let the focus of our hearts
bend toward gratitude, for with gratitude we find ourselves becoming what we
were always meant to be.
Happy Thanksgiving, Christa!
