Counting Sprinklesnot

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 181: Today, I am grateful for a reminder to be content. 

"Don't let your ice cream melt while you're counting somebody else's sprinkles. -Akilah Hughes

Nothing is more precious than this day. Take it in and squeeze out the goodness. 

Enjoy the fresh cold lemonade, iced tea, and/or the bowl of ice cream. Some people have the propensity to complain. It comes so naturally that it is evidence of practice. We can equally look at the good... by choice. 

I call it "The Complain Train." You don't have to yell "All aboard!" People are happy to jump on. The sad thing is, it doesn't solve any problems and does not take you anywhere you really want to go. 

Not that I was ever in need, for I have learned how to be content with whatever I have. -Philippians 4:11

We enjoy the "sprinkles" in life, but we do not need them. Be content with the sprinkles you have and do not forget to share. 

Today, I am grateful for a reminder to be content. 

Reminders Not To Hurry

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 180: Today, I am grateful for the reminder not to hurry the things that take time.  

We are overwhelmed today with the "instant" approach to nearly everything. Some things are so much better if we let them unfold in time. 

My zinnias do not hurry to bloom. Asparagus seeds take three years to full maturity. You can't hurry what God designed perfectly.

Baking is another example of haste makes waste. Let the bread rise. Let the flavors mix and meld for better results. The bake time has to be right.

Healing takes time, too. Our Lord forgives at the instant our hearts sincerely repent and change. Human emotions are a little more challenging. Grudges never bring good things. 

"Healing takes time. There's a reason the Lord waited 22 years to reunite Joseph and his brothers. The lessons were found in the waiting." -Toby Mac, #Speak Life 

We are not as wise as we think we are. There are lessons in waiting. Where you wait and how you wait impacts the outcome, too. Wait with anticipation, but not anxiety. Walk away from the things that destroy important relationships with loved ones and God. 

Embrace the wait. Reject the impatience. Rest in the shelter of His love and grace. 

"Don’t be impressed with your own wisdom. Instead, fear the Lord and turn away from evil. Then you will have healing for your body and strength for your bones. Today, I am grateful for the reminder not to hurry the things that take time. " -Proverbs 3:7-8 

Today, I am grateful for the reminder not to hurry the things that take time.  

A Good Explanation

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 179: Today, I am grateful for a good explanation. 

I love a good explanation. I would have made a terrible soldier. I am curious by nature, falling down rabbit holes to learn something new, and knowing a "why" helps me remember to do things correctly. 

"Why?" for me is not questioning authority. It helps me understand how everything works together. It is how my brain is wired. 

This was my verse of the day. It has long been one of my favorites to understand prayers that seem unanswered or God allowing bad things. Our bad... the "hard" in our story... might be more significant than we think. Our trial might be the thing that had to happen for other things to unfold. 

We are not the center of the universe. Adopted by the blood and the grace of Jesus, we are joint heirs with brothers and sisters who are equally loved. 

Think of Joseph who was thrown in a well, sold into slavery by his brothers and jailed unfairly because he would not commit adultery with the boss's wife. Through the tough stuff he grew his faith. He remained faithful. Joseph forgave his brothers, was reunited with his family, and saved Egypt and his people. 

I pulled "The Message" version for its common language:

"Don’t overlook the obvious here, friends. With God, one day is as good as a thousand years, a thousand years as a day. God isn’t late with his promise as some measure lateness. He is restraining himself on account of you, holding back the End because he doesn’t want anyone lost. He’s giving everyone space and time to change."  -2 Peter 3:9

He does not want anyone to perish. He does not hurry.  We are either moving toward him... or running away. We cannot tread water. Some will perish. He will not wait forever. 

The Lord is not slow. He is patient. 

Today, I am grateful for a good explanation. 

Radaph

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 178: Today, I am grateful for "radaph."

It took me 30 years, the loss of my sister (1995), and a Max Lucado book gifted to me (from Linda Neuhauser when April died) to fall in love with the 23rd Psalm. I know. Everyone else loves it. I found it sad and associated with funerals as a child. 

The book was "Traveling Light (The Burden You Were Never Meant To Carry).  I highly recommend it. 

Today, I learned a little more about Psalm 23:6. Blueletterbible.org gives the average person access to a better understanding of the original Hebrew and Greek languages of the Bible. It is always enlightening to dig a little deeper. 

"Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life, and I shall dwell in the house of the Lord forever." -Psalm 23:6

The Hebrew word really does mean much more than "follow." The word "radaph" implies chasing or pursuing. Being chased and pursued is usually stressful, but in this passage it is "surely goodness and mercy" pursuing us. Good things not bad. 

Most likely King David wrote this psalm when he was king. He had come face to face with predators while shepherding his sheep. He was pursued by King Saul who wanted him dead. He knew the taste of battles and the brokenness of sin and disobedience. God pursued him with goodness and mercy. The first child with Bathsheba died breaking his heart. Another child of that union was King Solomon. Surely, goodness and mercy did more than follow David, it pursued him. 

What an image that creates! He chases us with good things but we have our own agendas. He pours out forgiveness and mercy when we repent. He restores our brokenness. We are never truly homeless, because we are just passing through this world. 

Today, I am grateful for "radaph."

Not Job Too Small or Humble

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 177: Today, I am grateful for reminders that no job is too small or too humble.

David had a servant's heart. He was the youngest child and with his brothers off serving in the army, he took care of the sheep and things back home. 

David was extra "the man of the house" when they were gone, yet his father, Jesse, did not include him when the prophet Samuel came looking for a king. 

David just did what needed to be done. He was a worker. People, even King Saul, enjoyed his company. He was a musician and an excellent shot, yet humble, thoughtful, and kind. 

It appeared that David did not find any task that needed done beneath him. 

"If David had not been delivering lunches, he would've never become Israel's king. Be faithful in the small stuff." 

It is true. Pride always gets humans in trouble. In the garden, the tower of Babel, and even faithful Moses lost the privilege of entering the promised land when his pride and temper caused him to pridefully throw a fit... forgetting that the close relationship between him and God did not make God his equal in any way. 

He can be our best friend, but He is still holy and just. Jesus reprimanded the disciples who asked for a special seat in Heaven with him and the Father. Be humble. Be faithful. Be kind. 

Solomon's wisdom is still true today. 

"Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." -Proverbs 16:18

Mother Theresa said: "Do small things with great love." 

Today, I am grateful for reminders that no job is too small or too humble.

Appreciation Is Holy

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 176: Today, I am grateful that appreciation is a holy thing. 

Every day the mirror reminds me that I am a far cry from "holy" but by God's grace I get to try again with each new sunrise. 

"I believe that appreciation is a HOLY THING, that when we look for what's best in a person, we happen to be with at the moment, we're doing what God does all the time." -Fred Rogers

This quote from Fred Rogers is one of my favorites. God, in his holiness, intentionally looks for the best in us. He sees something redeeming and worth dying for when we are at our worst. How can that be? The answer might be that it is a "holy thing." 

When we walk in His ways and learn from His word, we try to be more intentional, until it becomes reflexive and reflective of the His love and grace. We continue to get some things right, some things wrong, and some things are improving with each attempt. We are not yet perfect. 

Look for the good around you and you will find it. Appreciate what you can... where you can. Showing appreciation has a positive effect on the giver and not just the receiver. It is a double win! 

"They have been a wonderful encouragement to me, as they have been to you. You must show your appreciation to all who serve so well." -1 Corinthians 16:18

Paul is speaking of fellow believers who served to be an encouragement to him in his work. 

Today, I am grateful that appreciation is a holy thing. 

Be Happy Today

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 175: Today, I am grateful we can be happy today. 

So much energy is wasted wishing away a perfectly good day. It might be hot and humid, but the day is still good. Life has a lot of "toos" in it. Too busy, too tired, too hot, too cold, and too worrisome. 

It is so easy to cheat ourselves out of the goodness of this day. Pause and look for the sweet, the special, the good, and the glorious. It is a game changer. 

" This is the day the Lord has made. We will rejoice and be glad in it." -Psalm 118:24

Today, I am grateful we can be happy today.

Water Play

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 174: Today, I am grateful for water play.

Sprinklers, pools, water guns and splash pads are a few of the ways we enjoy water play when things heat up. We are under heat advisories here this week and everyone is looking for a way to cool down. There is nothing like it to refresh the spirit and soul. 

Clifton had "The Pool" and Chebanse had "The Pit" for summer water fun. Kids from Clifton, Ashkum, and Chebanse all looked forward to visits to the water for fun and friendship. Lifeguard jobs were coveted when other kids were walking beans or detasseling corn. When it is miserably hot, there is nothing as refreshing as water play. Water is essential to life.

These pictures are from a weekend back home in Clifton (2009). Jennifer and I took the kids to "The Pit." I saw some old friends there with their families, too. It has been a favorite swimming hole for many generations. 

Before the harvest, all four will be married. Where does the time go?  I am grateful for these summer memories of water play. 

For those in the heat... do not forget to drink water. There is nothing like it. Even better, taste the "living water" and never be truly refreshed and satisfied.

"But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” -John 4:14

Today, I am grateful for water play.

The Right Time

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 173: Today, I am grateful for "the right time." 

Not long ago, we finished a  Bible Study on Esther in Sunday School. I love Esther. It is such a short book but brimming with God's faithfulness and evidence of His perfect timing and how "what was intended for harm, turned out for good." It is a perfect example of "the right time." 

Joseph is another example of the long road to being at the right place at the right time. His faithfulness in the pit, in the jail cell for a crime he did not commit, and how he handled power when his time arrived. His forgiveness for his brothers was healing for all. When famine struck, Joseph was in the right place at the right time. 

Ruth was at the right place at the right time for Boaz to see her work ethic and her heart. Her care for Naomi when she, too, had nothing said a great deal about her character. She was at the right place at the right time. 

These are truly examples of God's perfect timing. They all humbled themselves before God. 

Jesus was the ultimate example. Mary and Joseph were the perfect pair to raise the God-child when heaven came to earth to walk in our skin, our shoes, and our struggles. A humble home raised Jesus as he learned his earth-father's trade. Imagine Joseph's delight in seeing him work with his hands. Surely, like any father, he savored their time in the workshop together. Not his biological father, but the one who protected him over and over again when he was a child. 

Then, he humbled himself to be beaten and endure crucifixion on a Roman cross so that our sin debt would be paid in full... once and for all! 

"So humble yourselves under the mighty power of God, and at the right time he will lift you up in honor." -1 Peter 5:6 NLT

I am always fascinated to watch what God can do with a life surrendered and a faithful heart. His timing is always right. 

Today, I am grateful for "the right time." 

The Weight of Things

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 171: Today, I am grateful for the weight of things that matter.   

Back in 1907, Dr. Duncan McDougall attempted to determine if the human soul had a weight. His sampling was small, but he felt there was some consistency. His conclusion was that the human soul weighed three-fourths of an ounce... or 21.3 grams. 

Honestly, it is not something I have contemplated. God blew his breath into man. I call it our "soul breath" because God breathed his breath into Adam to give him life. I have never questioned its weight. 

Most "I died and came back to life" recollections talk about a sense of floating up. Some find a peaceful encounter, loved ones, and Jesus on their temporary step beyond this life. Others feel darkness and fear. Whatever the soul's weight, it is precious and priceless.  

We each have to make up our minds what we believe. Our decision impacts our destination. 

Mark is the shortest of the Gospels. It is compact but full of key notes. Think of it as the "Spark Notes" or "Cliff Notes." Mark is straight to the point. For me, it makes this passage even more valuable. This passage is wordier than many, but it is the words of Jesus he is repeating:

"Then, calling the crowd to join his disciples, he said, “If any of you wants to be my follower, you must give up your own way, take up your cross, and follow me. If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul? If anyone is ashamed of me and my message in these adulterous and sinful days, the Son of Man will be ashamed of that person when he returns in the glory of his Father with the holy angels.”  -Mark 8:34-38

Biblical scholars do not always agree if this was the first gospel penned, or if it came later. Most believe it was John Mark, who traveled with Peter spreading the Good News, who held the pen and that the intended audience was gentiles. 

As much as I love words, it is more important to get it right when you write. Mark captures the heartbeat, the excitement and the conviction of the Gospel. It is brief and beautiful. 

And what do you benefit if you gain the whole world but lose your own soul? Is anything worth more than your soul?

Whatever this world has to offer from wealth and pleasure, there is a cost. This is one of my favorite songs from Toby Mac and it features Mandisa and Kirk Franklin, too. It has an on point and timeless message.

Lose My Soul - Toby Mac, Kirk Franklin & Mandisa

What is your soul worth? Jesus was willing to go to the cross to pay off our "sin debt." Are we willing to make our lives a daily, living, offering?

Today, I am grateful for the weight of things that matter. 

 

Juneteenth: Strength & Courage

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 170: Today, I am grateful for strength and courage.

Juneteenth is a day of celebration marking the news of Emancipation Day in Texas on June 19th in the year 1865. The Civil War was over and freedom for enslaved people was declared from sea to shining sea. It was one hundred years before I was born, I cannot imagine the sense of awe, disbelief, and excitement. 

So much blood was shed. It was a long and bloody war. Restoring unity to a broken country would be a long road. From slavery to business owners, political leaders, and entrepreneurs would be a long road, too. 

This image is from Pinterest. I love the pictures and writings of Morgan Harper Nichols. She paints with words. (I fell in love with her writing before I knew she was Jamie Grace's sister.) This one seemed perfect for today:

"This journey will not be easy, and this is also true, beautiful strength and courage is rising up within you." -MHN

New beginnings require strength and courage. Choosing healing requires strength and courage. Forgiveness requires strength and courage. Embracing new opportunities requires strength and courage. Freedom is always a reason to celebrate. 

Saul/Paul is one of my favorite Biblical heroes. The strength of his faith in the Jesus he came face to face with on the road to Damascus humbles me. His hatred for Jesus consumed him and would have eventually ruined his life. Hate is like that. When Saul became Paul, he changed "teams." He knew he was signing up for the beatings, jail, and chains he used to dole out. He did not care! He had a new reason to get up every day. 

He found the truest source of freedom. He gave up his privilege to become a slave to the gospel. Understanding and accepting that Jesus was who he claimed to be changed his heart. When his hate died, love blossomed. The stone cold heart became flesh again. One of my very favorite verses is when he is sitting in jail, facing probable death and Paul declares,

"For to me, living means living for Christ, and dying is even better. But if I live, I can do more fruitful work for Christ. So I really don’t know which is better. I’m torn between two desires: I long to go and be with Christ, which would be far better for me." -Philippians 1:21-23

Paul means, he literally cannot lose! That is freedom. Heaven or sharing the gospel that saved him from himself? Strength and courage rising up in tandem. 

Today, I am grateful for strength and courage.

Memories in a Mug

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 169: Today, I am grateful for the memories in a mug. 

On Monday, I walked in to find a beautiful box waiting for me. Seriously, it was my favorite kind of fancy box and I could only wonder what was inside. It wasn't my birthday or any special occasion. 

I opened it to find a note on beautiful stationary with a handwritten signature. My sweet, fun, and silly friend Jeannie. Oh, she makes me laugh, smile, and think more thoughtfully at times. 

Jeannie is glamour, sparkle, and sincerity combined. She does not experience seatherny (the feeling of serenity most people experience when listening to birds chirp) the way I do. She wants the birds to be quiet so she can sleep in the morning. I giggled to find this mug with a detachable bird inside. So did my Randy. (The birds are chirping outside of our shared office space at this very moment.)

Every mug has a memory. A trip, a "favorite" thing, and my favorite... the one that makes you think of the giver. I love the chirp of the birds. For Jeannie, she prefers the quiet ones. This mug and the little bird are a snapshot of shared moments and memories in our friendship. 

We agree on loving Lou's hot dogs, Mary Englebright, Jesus, Pres, sparkle, and color. We disagree on the birds singing in the morning. The most beautiful friendships mean we see each other's quirks and choose to find them endearing. 

"A friend loves at all times," Proverbs 17:17

Look at your mug collection this morning. What memories do you see? The people, the places, the conversations, the friendships, and the moments. I will delight in this one and think of Jeannie every time I fill my cup and listen to the birds singing. (Love you, Jeannie!)

Today, I am grateful for the memories in a mug. 

Delays and Detours

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 168: Today, I am grateful for the delays and detours. 

"The strength of our patience hangs on our capacity to believe that God is up to something good for us in all our delays and detours."  -John Piper

The delays and the detours we find inconvenient, annoying and unfair just might God's hand boldly slowing us down to protect us, train us, or empower us for what comes next. Every time I come upon a recent accident on the road, I wonder what delay that day may have prevented me from being in that accident. Was it an extra long stoplight? Misplacing my phone? Or, needing to make a last minute clothing change because something spilled. It is a good time to offer thanks. 

Inconvenient delays and detours might be God's protection. The delays and detours can involve jobs, relationships, and opportunities missed. He is not absent and he does not sleep. We simply cannot see the big picture. Patience is not easy, but it is a virtue. 

"He guards the paths of the just and protects those who are faithful to him." -Proverbs 2:8

Take a deep breath. Rest peacefully. His hand is present. 

Today, I am grateful for the delays and detours.

Evidence in our Actions

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 167: Today, I am grateful for evidence in our actions. 

"Actions speak louder than words." 

We have heard it said many times. Does it fall on deaf ears or does it recharge our souls? 

Behaviors do matter. 

"Even children are known by the way they act, whether their conduct is pure, and whether it is right." -Proverbs 29:11

The longest recorded conversation with Jesus was with the one had with the "Woman at the Well" as she is known. That exchange changed her life forever. She no longer only carried water, she carried the gospel in her changed heart. She was empty and thirsty. He offered her hope and healing. 

Speaking to her defied many customs and rules of society, but He saw her thirst. 

Society today is quick to post memes, carry signs, and spew ugly words. What if we posted encouragement, carried water and food to the hungry, and threw kindness like confetti? What if the need dearest to our heart filled our free time? 

Care about the children? Become a foster parent... and maybe an adoptive one. 
Care about the homeless? Serve at a local shelter or food bank.
Care about neglected and abandoned animals? Serve at a local animal rescue. 
Care about the sick? Give blood or become an organ donor. 

On this day after Father's Day, I am reminded that Dad carried a business card that said, "If you meet me and forget me,  you have lost nothing. If you meet Jesus and forget him, you've lost everything." He loved to carry Gideon Bibles into the Iroquois County Jail. A young woman was looking at life in jail for defending her life, he put his money where his mouth was and did what he could. It broke Dad's heart for her children, especially a little four year old girl. Dad and Mama bailed her out of jail until she went to court. Uncle Mel joined them. They did not make a fuss. They quietly did what they believed was right. 

That young mother lost her case in the local court, as expected. She won in the appellate court. Precedent was set. She was in a hopeless situation, but with our God, nothing is impossible. Actions speak louder than words.

Today, I am grateful for evidence in our actions. 

Direction

 Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 166: Today, I am grateful for direction.

"Direction is so much more important than speed. Many are going nowhere fast." -unknown

Where we come from is how the world measures us. Where we are going is defined by a God who was willing to take on the human experience to pay our unpaid dues. His death on a cross changed our direction. We must only choose to accept the gift. 

Let the new week begin with a sense of direction.

"I pondered the direction of my life,  and I turned to follow your laws. I will hurry, without delay, to obey your commands." -Psalm 119:59-60

Today, I am grateful for direction.

Good Fathers

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 165: Today, I am grateful for good fathers. 

Good fathers are a blessing. Not all children are blessed with a father who chooses to be present and engaged in the lives of their children. Many have lost good fathers way too young to illness, war, accidents, and other plot twists in life. 

My own father had three major goals for us as children. The first was to really find a personal relationship with Jesus and to make him our best friend. The second was to love people... all people and to create a home full of love and hospitality. We always knew we were loved. The third was to be fiscally responsible with whatever resources we had and to share with those in need. He was one of a kind. 

The Love of My Life has cherished being a Dad to our boys... and their chosen girls. Every season is precious. I am so grateful for my friend, Carol Jankowski, sharing the quote "In these days, the days are long, but the years are short." outside of Lincoln School when Walker was a baby preschool aged and Chase was in the early years of elementary school. Carol was right. Randy loves to help the boys with projects or simply sharing a cup of coffee.  Time together always goes by fast. 

I would remiss not to mention Daisy Mae, Randy's fur-baby and the kids' fur-babies. We know they are animals, but they are family, too. How people treat animals tells us a great deal about their character. 

This weekend we celebrate fathers. I have loved watching my little brother be a Dad in every season. His girls have never doubted that they are treasured. 

I cannot forget that our Heavenly Father blesses us with so many good gifts... most of all... family and home. 

"So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him." -Matthew 7:11

Today, I am grateful for good fathers. 

Bee Loving, Be Kind

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 164: Today, I am grateful for reminders to "Bee Loving" and to "Be Kind."

This little cup is so cute. How could a person not smile while sipping from it? Bees are so necessary to the environment. We need to be kind to them. 

For those who are allergic, they are concerning, but for the rest of us... they are the great pollinators and honey makers. They pollinate flowers and garden blooms. Pumpkin farmers need the bees. 

Sometimes, what seems like a pest and a bother is part of a grander design. Bees are one of the details. Without bees, there would be no honey. Honey is the most natural of sweeteners, and it tastes delicious. I recently read that honey was found in an ancient tomb and it was still edible! Crazy right? 

Bee loving means being kind to them. Consider planting plants that attract them. What chemicals impact their survival? 

"My child, eat honey, for it is good, and the honeycomb is sweet to the taste. -Proverbs 24:13

Solomon's wisdom is sound. Eat honey because it is good. Good for your body, mind, and soul. It is sweetness straight designed by our creative God. Love the bees. Be kind to the earth. We need them, and they need us to be considerate of their needs, too.  

Today, I am grateful for reminders to "Bee Loving" and to "Be Kind."

Repair the Nets

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 163: Today, I am grateful for a reminder to repair the nets.

"When fishermen cannot go to sea, they repair the nets."

This image reads: "When the seas is too rough to sail, the smart ones don't wait- they get to work. They mend their nets to sharpen their tools, and prepare for the moment the storm breaks. Because even in stillness, there is progress. It is not about sitting idle; it's about building what is next."

There is a stillness in this ink drawn image. The art of it captures the heart of it. Can you feel the stillness of the calm waters as the fisherman repairs the tool of his trade? The scent of the sea and the lap of the water on the shore creates a stillness found in very few places. 

Those who make their living from the sea know when to go out with the boats and when to mend nets on the shore. 

"Lazy people sleep soundly, but idleness leaves them hungry." -Proverbs 19:15

The time to mend the nets is before the big haul is in front of you. Idleness leads to hunger, literally. The farmer who quits early in the planting or harvest may lose part of the crop if an unexpected weather event happens. Rain, winds, heat, and cold can take their toll. Do the work, then rest. Even at rest, hands can be busy. 

It is exciting to see people everywhere taking an interest in growing their own food. "Gardens" are growing in buckets in back yards, on balconies in the cities, and in other surprising places. For many, it is relaxing to go out and check the progress and growth every day. The downtime at the end of a work day for many is a little time in the garden... however and wherever your garden grows. It is not time for the harvest, but a garden needs tending, just like the nets. 

Grandma Opal Maxine St. John Bess Watson worked hard. When she was sitting, her hands were rarely idle. She had yarn and needles in hand (I think it was knitting, not crochet.) She lived by Proverbs 19:15. She was always prepared. She always "repaired the nets."

Today, I am grateful for a reminder to repair the nets.

Choose Humility

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 162: Today, I am grateful for reminders to choose humility.

"Do the hard things, trusting God when it hurts, humbling yourself...is the perfume you pour on Jesus' feet. " - found at The Eye of my Heart

Life can deal out some hard stuff. The scales of justice often seem tipped in the wrong direction. We were "never promised a rose garden", as the old song goes. 

How we respond to the hard stuff reflects our relationship with Christ more than the good times. Toys and tinsel can be distracting... and I like toys and tinsel as much as the next person. Hard things, hard times, and the upward battles. We all face them. They seem like giants in our way. Pride can be a giant.   

Jesus told the parable of a Pharisee and a tax collector. The Pharisee was arrogant. He was so proud that he was not like the "sinners" around him... like the tax collector. Jesus took one of his usual plot twists. He declared the sinner justified before God and predicted the Pharisee would be humbled. 

I tell you, this sinner, not the Pharisee, returned home justified before God. For those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” -Luke 18:14 NLT

Let's just say, it was not well received by the high and mighty. The tax collector's humility moved the heart of God. It was like perfume poured out on Jesus' feet. 

What will we choose today?

Today, I am grateful for reminders to choose humility.

Faithful Joseph

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 161: Today, I am grateful for faithful Joseph. 

Joseph, in his youth, might have been a bit of a brat with his brothers. We know that his brothers were envious of his father's favoritism. Honestly, I do not understand it. I love my children equally and differently. They are my favorites! Plural. 

Joseph's brothers left him at the bottom of a well, and  they sold him into slavery. Somewhere along the way, he looked to God to be his everything. He found himself in a strange land, and in a strange home as a servant not a child of the master of house. Joseph remembered who he was in the midst of troubles. I imagine he went over the scriptures he learned in childhood over and over. They were a comfort and a reminder of home.  

"Joseph did not endure the pit, Potipher's house, and prison because he knew he would end up in the Pharaoh's palace. He simply remained faithful wherever he found himself. God did the rest. -H.B. Charles, Jr.

You would think it is easy to be faithful in the good times. So often, it is in abundance that we are most distracted. When we suffer discomfort through illness, relationship trials, or financial struggles, we often look for a "reason" and find ourselves drawing nearer to Jesus for reassurance and comfort. When Jesus is our enough, everything changes from our perspective to our conversations.

"Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you. Cleanse your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded."-James 4:8

 Joseph discovered it. We can, too. 

Today, I am grateful for faithful Joseph. 

The "Thy Way Not My Way" Highway

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 160: Today, I am grateful for the "Thy Way Not My Way" Highway.

My first encounter with Louie Giglio was his "How Great is Our God" video where he manages to create a choir of heaven and nature singing in a choir of whales and stars. It is one of my favorites. 

Toby Mac is another. Toby has a #SPEAKLIFE Instagram that is so good. He combines an image with a spiritual thought. He has always had a way with words/lyrics. He has impacted many lives with his music. When life has broken his heart, he has turned it into a testimony. 

"One of the scariest realities in life is that if you insist, God will let you do it your way."  -Louie Giglio

 No one is promised an easy journey through this world. We are told that following God's heart will ultimately be a "straight path" but that does not mean it is the easy one. The straight path might mean loss of friendships, discomfort when the road narrows, and uncomfortable footing. Still, sticking to it always has better outcomes. We long to take the "My Way Not Thy Way Highway" because the enemy of our souls whisper it will be easier, better, and more fun. He is not our friend.

The verse that came to my mind when I saw the quote this morning. I did not do my usual prayer asking for something better if He has it for me. I was confident in my own way. I had a great verse planned out. 

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." -Proverbs 3:5-6

It is a good verse. Perfect to support the quote. Forgetting my usual prayer, when I opened up Biblegateway.com, this was the verse of the day:

“You can enter God’s Kingdom only through the narrow gate. The highway to hell is broad, and its gate is wide for the many who choose that way. But the gateway to life is very narrow and the road is difficult, and only a few ever find it." -Matthew 7:13-14

He wins again, even when I forget to ask for His help. It always gives me the chills. Our God is truly present when we invite him into our daily walk... even when we forget to offer the prayer. 

Today, I am grateful for the "Thy Way Not My Way" Highway.

  

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 159: Today, I am grateful for surefooting.          

Watching deer move so quietly and without stumbling makes them fascinating to watch. I grew up with deer being frequent visitors on our land. They always appear majestic.

Deer are easily startled and move quickly.  The fields, forests, and mountains often have unpredictable ground underfoot, yet they dash across the landscape with grace and ease. They are magnificent.                                                                                                        "The Sovereign Lord is my strength! He makes me as surefooted as a deer, able to tread upon the heights." -Habakkuk 3:19 

They seem to recognize that humans can bring danger and help. I've seen videos of a mother deer seeking human help for a baby stuck in a fence, mud, or other trouble. Their ears are sharp. They assess and quickly respond to trouble. They seem to choose flight over fight, except at mating season. They run with confidence. Do they know where they are going? 

I am grateful for our God who directs our paths. He is able to make us tread paths we would not ordinarily choose. He is present when we want to fight and to flee. Trusting him when the road looks grueling, long, or too hard is often where we grow a deeper understanding of his abiding and unfailing love. 

He is the one who will make a way for us when the landscape is dangerous and uncertain. We can have surefooted confidence because He walks, climbs, and runs with us. 

Today, I am grateful for surefooting.  

 

He Is Our Home

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 158: Today, I am grateful He is our home. 

This scripture caught my eye today.:

"Lord, through all the generations you have been our home! Before the mountains were born, before you gave birth to the earth and the world, from beginning to end, you are God." -Psalm 90:1-2

Several times today I have been reminded that God is our home. We call him Heavenly Father  in our prayers, recognizing his care and provision. Will we celebrate the way he Father's his children on Father's Day?

2025 is nearly half over. The world keeps spinning. It is not going faster and faster, but it feels that way at times. Yet, we are safe in His care whatever the days ahead my bring.

Today, I am grateful He is our home. 

Every Moment Is Holy

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 157: Today, I am grateful every moment is holy. 

"Meet me, O Christ, in the stillness of morning. Move me, O Spirit, to quiet my heart. Mend me, O Father, from yesterday's harms. 

From the discords of yesterday, resurrect my peace. From the discouragements of yesterday, resurrect my hope. From the weariness of yesterday, resurrect my strength. From the doubts of yesterday, resurrect my faith. From the wounds of yesterday, resurrect my love. 

Let me enter this new day aware of my need, and awake to your grace, O Lord." - Every Moment Holy, Vol 1 

The "Every Moment Holy" series was created by Douglas Kaine McKelvey. Like me, he did not grow up with liturgical worship. So many say they do not know how to pray. Prayer does not have to be fancy, just heartfelt. In fact, the "hot mess" moments when we finally seek his face, He is always waiting. Jesus knew those who walked with him and sought him out would feel lost without him. He sent the Holy Spirit so we could always be in his presence. No fancy required. 

"Every Moment Holy" is full of prayers for the ordinary moments in life. I grew up being told to use "The Lord's Prayer" as a model, but that I could talk to Jesus like he is your best friend, because He wants to be your best friend. He longs to be your first call and not your last resort. "He cares for you" means all of us. The good, the broken, the beautiful, the fun, and the soul weary parts, too. Every moment he is with us means every moment is holy. 

My treasured friend, Sally Rosenboom, is now enjoying her coffee in heaven and serving others. It was one of her favorite things to do. Coffee and community are where we find some of life's sweetest moments in our faith walk. Sally gave me my first "Every Moment Holy" when there was only one volume as a gift. I have since gifted it many times. It is full of whimsy and wonder. It reminds me of her and our many deep faith conversations. God is not boring. He is endless wonder. Spend some time with him and find out. 

Sally grew up with more liturgical worship. This book fits everyone in their prayer life. We can all meet in the middle. The prayers are a great place to start when preparing for a new day... or when serving as a worship leader. One that struck a chord with me was a prayer before a sporting competition. Do we look like Jesus in the stands at a sporting event for our kids? Every moment is holy. 

 As I drink my coffee today, I am reminded that every moment is holy. His Spirit is with us. After his death on the cross to pay our sin debt, the Holy Spirit was the best gift ever! 

"Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit.  Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you. And be sure of this: I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” -Matthew 28:19-20

Today, I am grateful every moment is holy because He is with us. 

Spill or Fill?

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 156: Today, I am grateful for the choice to spill or fill the cup.   

Summer with siblings can be long. They are designed to be our first, best, and last friends. They are the people who join our biggest celebrations including birthdays, graduations, weddings and childbirth. 

Our family has experienced sibling loss. April was the first. Then Jill, who was like a sister in every way. Then more recently Monte (Randy's brother), Ken (Lola's husband), and Jennifer's brother, Jeff. We miss them. Deeply. 

Siblings team up with us to help with aging or sick parents. They hold our hands at graveside goodbyes. They remember our childhood stories and every other chapter with us. Sadly, we do not always realize how precious they are until one is gone. They help shape us. Their encouragement is priceless. 

Our spouses and children are our heart beat. Pouring into them instead of draining their cups is always best practice. Sometimes, we can see what they need better than they can. Being too close to a trial can make our own vision unclear. Those who pour into us make a difference. 

Not living near family, a neighborhood, church and work family can make a difference, too. "Will a different job make a better life?" is always a good question to ask. We really are better together. God literally designed us for relationship with Him and then for each other. He knew that Adam's gentle strength and Eve's fierce softness would make a perfect combination. 

"So encourage each other and build each other up, just as you are already doing." 1Thessalonians 5:11

What will we choose today? Instead of spilling someone's tea, be the person who fills their cup. 

Today, I am grateful for the choice to spill or fill the cup. 

Under Your Feet

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 155: Today, I am grateful for what can be grown under our feet. 

It is the growing season. The seeds are planted and some are popping up. There is so much hope when tiny green plants begin to pop up. It is part of the reason I love a long spring. 

"The foolish man seeks happiness in the distance. The wise grows it under his feet." -James Oppenheim

Discontentment is a tool of the enemy of our souls. What is beautiful and good under your feet today? What miracles of nature do we take for granted daily that are easily viewed from our window?

"Yet true godliness with contentment is itself great wealth. After all, we brought nothing with us when we came into the world, and we can’t take anything with us when we leave it." -1 Timothy 6:6-7

I will never forget Glen Belsley telling the story of a trip to Australia. They took a tour of an area where the Aboriginal people still lived as hunters and gatherers. The guide told the tour that what they saw the people carrying around with them was all they owned in this life. The Americans, British, and other Europeans on the trip became quiet. The guide spoke these words that still echo in my memory, as Glen was a wonderful storyteller. "Don't feel sorry for them, they are happier than most of you." 

Stuff does not matter in the end. Valuing the "enough" and not seeking to "win" but working to live. Sharing and working together in community and in relationships. They live with and abide in nature. Some have moved to a more modern life, but those who remain in their traditional ways might be the ones live with contentment. 

What will we grow under our feet today? 

Today, I am grateful for what can be grown under our feet.