Giving thanks always and for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Eph. 5:20 (ESV)
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for only commanding things that intensify our worship of you—and things that free us from a paralyzing preoccupation with ourselves and liberate us for loving those around us. The command to give you thanks is just such a transforming imperative. And the awesome thing is, that as your children, we have a copious supply of reasons to stay grateful. My list looks like this today:
Thank you for granting us 100% forgiveness, declaring us righteous in Christ, and hiding our lives in Jesus. You cannot love us more and you’ll never love us less. That’s not cliché, a mantra, or mere gospel-speak: It’s the best news, now and forever.
Thank you for sovereignly ruling over all things all the time. Though in my weakness I often question your timing and ways, all I have to do is look at Jesus and I am reassured of your heart.
Thank you for the all the green I saw in Ireland this summer, the kaleidoscopic array of people you brought into my life over the past twelve weeks, and for showing me how alive and well your kingdom and church are throughout the world.
Thank you for the reassurance that Alzheimer’s and cancer, mental illness and addiction don’t get the last word. Thank you that because the gospel is true, I can “chillax” and not pose or pretend as much—anywhere with anybody. Thank you for gospelicious friends with whom to share this season of life.
Thank you for college football, and for fish to catch and fish to eat. Thank you that when I finish my daily bike ride, nothing hurts. Thank you for the sounds of culinary pleasure rising from our table last night, as Darlene and I savored the best bread pudding ever in the history of desserts.
Father, thank you for the coming Day of wiped tears and redeemed sorrows, of no more sin in my heart and your glory covering the earth. So very Amen I pray, in Jesus’ merciful and mighty name.
