Thanksgiving

Dear God,

Today I woke up to start another day for which you have blessed me with.  Every breath is a gift from you that I often take for granted, however, I pray for humility to appreciate the very steps I take each day.

I opened my eyes to a roof over my head, and felt the warmth of shelter in my midst.  A turned over to my left, and through a bundle of blankets I saw my wife whom you brought into my life.  Her smile warms my heart every moment of the day.  I walked out of our room and quiet snores and rustling of blankets emanated from two rooms near the stairs.  These noises are from the two beautiful children you saw fit for us to raise.  I hear their breathing, and sometimes see their gentle faces as I leave for work each morning.  They are the future of our family, and also a great responsibility which requires our constant effort.  Although they frustrate me from time to time, I learn from as much as they learn from me.

A few steps downstairs and I was peering out of our windows.  Our neighborhood experiences peace and safety, and this morning was no different.  The call of several birds is the only noise breaking the cold Fall air this morning.  I continued into the kitchen past the refrigerator packed full of food for this Thanksgiving Day.  For that matter, we never wonder where our next meal will come from.  Reaching into the cupboard I grab some vitamins and head into the dining room.  I often fail to recognize the money you afford me to buy vitamins, medicine, and other items to keep me healthy and combat sickness. 

I finally came to rest in the chair at the head of our dining room table.  There have been so many mornings in which I performed the same ritual, however, this morning I had a moment of clarity.  I glanced around and took note of this day and how incredibly blessed I am.  One might think that it is because of the people and "stuff" I have mentioned.  No, it is your grace and mercy for which I am eternally grateful on this morning.  You sent your son to die on a cross for my sins so that I may live my life knowing I have a place in heaven.  All you ask for is faith like a child, and to make you the focal point of my life.  I will always be thankful for you.

Amen



Mark 22:34-39
Hearing that Jesus had silenced the Sadducees, the Pharisees got together. One of them, an expert in the law, tested him with this question: “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law?”
Jesus replied: “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.'"  This is the first and greatest commandment.  And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.