A Glass

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 336: Today, I am grateful I have a glass.    

How we choose to view the world is powerful. I saw this image today and had to smile. The age-old question of "is your glass half empty or half full" is used to determine if we are an optimist or a pessimist. 

Annie's song, "The sun will come up tomorrow" is a classic, too. We choose our approach each day. It is a powerful choice. And, tomorrow is only a day away. 

"Hope Floats" is an old movie with Sandra Bullock and Harry Connick Jr. was about a woman who had her life fall apart from infidelity exposed on public television. I have always loved the title for the truth it holds. If we can find a little light... a little hope... we can hold on until tomorrow. 

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance. And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because he has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with his love." -Romans 5:3-5

Today may be tough, but tomorrow is coming and His promises are true. We have life, breath, hope... and a glass.

Today, I am grateful I have a glass. 

                

The First Sunday of Advent

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 333: Today, I am grateful for the first Sunday of Advent. 

In the blink of an eye, Thanksgiving weekend turns our hearts toward Christmas. With the snow, the long weekend made it a great time to pull out the Christmas decorations. It always makes the winter more bearable when there are little white lights every night. 

The first Sunday of the Advent season, I am grateful for the hope that arrived when Mary said, "Let it be onto me as you have said." Young, scared, and trying to comprehend the wonder of it all. She would be the mother of the long awaited Messiah. Most would miss him, but she would know him and who he was from the beginning as only a mother can. 

And dear Joseph, took on a wife he had not known as a husband knows a wife... and a child he did not father. He did not have Mary stoned, as the law allowed. He believed and received a special part in the nativity. I have a soft spot for Joseph. 

The many prophecies fulfilled in Christ's birth, this is the one that came to pass because two people submitted and said, "Thy will be done" in us and unto us... accepting whatever the future might hold. 

"All right then, the Lord himself will give you the sign. Look! The virgin will conceive a child! She will give birth to a son and will call him Immanuel (which means ‘God is with us’)." -Isaiah 7:14

God with us. Christmas is a reminder that hope has come. He still waits for each of us to believe, receive, and find our way to the manger. 

Today, I am grateful for the first Sunday of Advent. 

The Wonder of Snowflakes

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 333: Today, I am grateful for the wonder of snowflakes. 

I am sitting here watching the snow come down out the window. It is a steady flurry and the flakes are being blown by the wind. Isn't it amazing that something as delicate as a snowflake can survive the winds? It survives as long as it submits to the wild ride and goes with the flow. 

It does not survive the impact with the ground or another object. It turns to a water drop when it stops moving. When the snowflakes cling together, they can be gathered to form snowmen and snowballs. They can become the magic that moves sleds, skies, or snowboards. Oh, the magic of it all. Our Creator has made the most amazing things in nature. Snow is one of the most breathtaking, even if I do not love the cold and bitter winds. 

We just finished a study on Job. One of the weeks focused on Job 38. This is one of only two examples of sarcasm I am aware of in the Bible. 

The first is where God asks Moses, "Is the Lord's arm too short?" Moses has suggested that what God asked would not work. He was full of excuses. God was clearly offended by Moses doubting His power to bring what was asked of Moses to fruition. 

We can describe snow, but experiencing it for the first time is unforgettable.  Kind of like when Midwest people make our way to the ocean for the first time. The awesomeness is real. 

Job was so faithful in the midst of his suffering, but there was that one moment when he questioned God. God responded with what translates like sarcasm. I love this passage in the "The Message" translation. The modern language speaks to the depths of my soul. Who are we to question omnipotence and omniscience? 

“Have you ever traveled to where snow is made, seen the vault where hail is stockpiled, The arsenals of hail and snow that I keep in readiness for times of trouble and battle and war? Can you find your way to where lightning is launched, or to the place from which the wind blows? Who do you suppose carves canyons for the downpours of rain, and charts the route of thunderstorms That bring water to unvisited fields, deserts no one ever lays eyes on, Drenching the useless wastelands so they’re carpeted with wildflowers and grass? And who do you think is the father of rain and dew, the mother of ice and frost? You don’t for a minute imagine these marvels of weather just happen, do you?" Job 38:22-30(MSG)

You do not for a minute imagine these marvels of the weather just happen, do you? There was always a source, and there still is. From that source comes the delicate... but resilient in the wind... snowflake. The earth is blanketed in glitter as the soil is restored with much needed water and rest. That God sends it in the form of snowflakes is art and smart. If it was raining, we would be flooded. 

Today, I am grateful for the wonder of snowflakes. 

Index Tabs

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 332: Today, I am grateful for index tabs.

I finally put index tabs on one of my favorite study Bibles. It sure saves time. I do not know why I waited. It makes the passage I am looking for so much easier to find. The shortest books can easily get lost or become hard to find. If the tabs are cute, that is a bonus. 

Seeking can be frustrating if there is no finding. I love this promise:

"You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart." -Jeremiah 2:13

Our part is to seek Him with our whole hearts. If we are looking in our Bibles, I am grateful for index tabs. 

 Today, I am grateful for index tabs.

Sing With Thankful Hearts

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 331: Today, I am grateful we can sing with thankful hearts. 

"Let the message of Christ dwell among you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom through psalms, hymns, and songs from the Spirit, singing to God with gratitude in your hearts." -Colossians 3:16

Does the message dwell within in a way that our hearts burst out in grateful songs? What dwells within me? What do I carry around with me every day? On my face? In my heart? 

We make these choices everyday. I am a chronic overpacker. I am a "just in case" girl, so I always pack for the unexpected that rarely happens. Choices matter. Do we over pack when we carry worry and anxiety?

I was reminded of a quote from Victor Frankl that I love:

"The last of human freedoms - the ability to choose one's attitude, especially an attitude of gratitude in a given set of circumstances, especially in difficult circumstances." -Viktor E. Frankl

He knew this from all that he saw in Hitler's concentration camps. He saw the best in people and the worst. One's attitude can be the very thing that helps us not only survive difficult times, but to find ways to bow our heads and lift our hearts in gratitude. The song of a grateful heart is one of the sweetest. 

Today, I am grateful we can sing with thankful hearts. 

In All Things Give Thanks

 Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 330: Today, I am grateful for the reminder to give thanks in all things. 

"Be thankful for all of it. The highs, the lows, the blessings, the lessons, the setbacks, the comeback...everything." 

It made me think of one of a scripture that is dear to my heart:

"give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." -1 Thessalonians 5:18

"All things" is a broad spectrum of events and experiences. All circumstances. All trials. All celebrations. All gifts. All losses. All discoveries. All births. Everything. 

May your Thanksgiving be filled with joy.

Today, I am grateful for the reminder to give thanks in all things.

Our Comings and Our Goings

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 329: Today, I am grateful he watches over our comings and goings. 

A friend blessed me with this passage about 4 years ago. I have kept it close to my heart. 

"the Lord will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore." -Psalm 121:8

We are so blessed to have a God who is omnipotent and omnipresent who watches over us. He has plans for us. He never abandons us, even when we stray from the straight path. The straight path is shorter and easier, but we wander off sometimes. 

Shiny things can lead to restless souls and rabbit holes. Walking the straight path is truly easier, but we are so easily distracted. 

At the end of the day today, we will be in Thanksgiving mode. Some will travel. Some will prepare their homes for guests. Some will head to serve meals at shelters. Whatever you are doing, celebrate a God who is aware of our comings and our goings. 

Our Pilgrim ancestors - the Saints and the Strangers - came together in a small sailing vessel. They were supposed to have two ships, but in the end, only one made the trip. The Saints came for religious freedom and to keep not lose their English heritage. The Strangers came for a better life outside of what they had in England. As they suffered the hardships on that little boat, they made their way to a new land. 

I listened to a Podcast with the man who runs the historical Plymouth site. It was interesting. The Native Americans saw their ship with curiosity. They saw each other through their unique understandings of the world. The Native Americans saw people coming with their elders and their children. You do not bring your elders and children to war. Thus, they gave them venison and other help. 

The Saints and Strangers were met by a people who offered them venison. Venison was something the common people were not offered. It was the good meat for the Lords and Ladies of the manors. They were cautious, but saw a welcome, too. 

The Lord certainly watched over their comings and goings. In their differences, the Saints and Strangers put together the Mayflower Compact, a piece that inspired our Constitution. The seasons change, but He continues to watch over our comings and our goings. 

Today, I am grateful he watches over our comings and goings. 

Still Sparkle

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 328: Today, I am grateful we can still sparkle.

Things change in our physical state as we grow older. The human body experiences aging. It is temporary housing for our souls. When we look at pictures from days gone by... it is obvious that some things change. 

"Love is when all the glitter falls off... and still see the person sparkle." 

I adore sparkle and glitter. Still, at my niece's recent wedding, the venue requested no glitter on guests' clothing. I understand. It is a mess to clean-up and the glitter seems to escape the mop and broom at times. 

Can we sparkle without glitter? I believe we can. There is something shiny and sparkly about a grateful heart. 

"So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." -Colossians 2:6-7

When we overflow with thankfulness, it catches the light. It not only catches the light, it reflects "The Light" of the world. We can sparkle at any age. Shine on! 

Today, I am grateful we can still sparkle.

Pretty Polish Pottery

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 327: Today, I am grateful for pretty Polish Pottery.

My friend Brittany (an artist & teacher) introduced me to this pretty Polish Pottery. It is gorgeous in color and design. On the bottom right you can see a pair of stacked soup, ice cream, or cereal bowls. They have the best handles.

The cobalt color is so eye-catching and it goes so well with the bright poppy reds and oranges. The greens add a sense of life to the pieces with green in the design. I love to stop and admire the beautiful pieces.

The clay must submit to the potter to become something beautiful. Brittany tells me that clay does not really go bad, but fresh clay is easier to work with for young artists. I remember that we used to buy new clay for the Picture Person art program when my kids were in grade school. We wanted to give students the best opportunity to be successful.

Those who work with clay know it can be challenging. The artist may start over many times with the same old lump of clay. The artist must be patient when a design is more complicated or new. Some items... repeated often... and may seem boring. I prefer to think of common items as old friends.

“Does not the potter have the right to make out of the same lump of clay some pottery for special purposes and some for common use?” – Romans 9:21

The Master Potter longs for us to offer our lives to Him for shaping. The pretty pottery reminds me that nothing is truly common when touched by the Master's hand.

Today, I am grateful for pretty Polish Pottery.

A chance to breathe

 Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 326: Today, I am grateful for chance to breathe.

An interruption in the daily grind can be such a blessing. They do not happen often so we have to grab the moment

Today, I am grateful for chance to breathe.

A comfortable bed…

 Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 325: Today, I am grateful for a comfortable bed. 

It has been a long week. At the end of the day there is nothing like a comfortable bed. I am grateful for warm, clean, and soft bedding. Our daily pleasures are luxuries many live without. I don’t want to take them for granted.

Today, I am grateful for a comfortable bed. 

Psalm 67

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 324: Today, I am grateful for Psalm 67. 

The number 67 has become a bit of an obsession. It is a random thing with no deeper meaning behind it. Students celebrated the 67th day of school... between the 50th and 100th day celebrations. My friend, Jim Sedgwick, always said "Make every day a holiday and every meal a feast." Why not celebrate 67, too?

As I was reflecting on the whole 67 thing, I thought it might be fun to look up 67's in scripture. It was perfect for this Thanksgiving season. It captures awe and respect for a God who is bigger, stronger, and shinier than our earth bound minds can truly comprehend. 

As I learned at the end of the first year of Daily Gratitude, "Daily Gratitude does not change God. It changes me. 

This Psalm is often used as a blessing:

"May God be gracious to us and bless us and make his face shine on us—so that your ways may be known on earth, your salvation among all nations. May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you.

May the nations be glad and sing for joy, for you rule the peoples with equity  and guide the nations of the earth. May the peoples praise you, God; may all the peoples praise you.

The land yields its harvest; God, our God, blesses us.
May God bless us still, so that all the ends of the earth will fear him." -Psalm 67

Pray it. Live it. Pour from your blessing cup so others may know the joy of the Lord. 

Today, I am grateful for Psalm 67. 

Today, I am grateful for Psalm 67.

Final Letters

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 323: Today, I am grateful for Paul's final letters.

Paul wrote this letter to Timothy who was in Ephesus. Paul was not far from death at the hands of Emperor Nero in 67 AD. What do you write to someone you love like a son before you are martyred for the faith and work you share? 

Paul had seen so much. When he was Saul, he was zealous and passionate about religion, but he was on the wrong side of things. A little blinding incident on the road on his way to Damascus and meeting Jesus face to face changed his understanding of who Jesus was. It took a bold intervention, but the end result was a man so changed, his name needed to be changed, too.  

Paul's knowledge of the scriptures, the law, his personality, and his advantages as a Roman citizen made him unique. I've wondered, "Would I have liked him, or thought him crazy?" 

Paul was passionate about writing letters. He truly knew that his life was in jeopardy almost daily. He spent time in jail. He seemed very aware of it, but it did not stop him. His passion to share the gospel never waivered. He was a quarterback and then a coach. He would no longer be on the sidelines to give direction and encouragement. The "kids" would have to press on without his earthly presence. 

Have you ever found a letter or something written by a loved one who is now gone? Do you see it as a treasure? Mama Ina Mae's handwriting was never beautiful. Dad's was lovely and Uncle Mel's was beautiful. Still, Mama's handwriting is a precious gift every time I find it. I especially enjoy it in her recipe box. I constantly write in the margins of my Bible to keep track of what I am learning at the time. I hope my loved ones enjoy the notes someday. 

Paul did not want Timothy or the church at Ephesus to get discouraged. Whatever they faced, they were not alone. He had zero fear of death because of his 100% confidence in his confession of faith, the gift of salvation, and a life lived as a "living sacrifice" to the one who paid his sin debt in full. He wanted Timothy and other believers to carry on with the power of the Holy Spirit. He wanted to leave them with important final words. 

For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power, love, and self-discipline. -2 Timothy 1:7 NLT

Today, I am grateful for Paul's final letters.

God is Leading

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 322: Today, I am grateful God is leading. 

I have a soft spot for Moses. His story was so unusual that only God could have orchestrated it. He was protected as he floated in a basket into the arms of the Pharaoh's daughter where he was loved and raised like a prince. He was able to keep contact with his birth family as his own mother nursed him for the princess. 

He was educated, and destined for a life of privilege. He had no idea what God was preparing him for during his time in the palace. He was not perfect which only makes me love him more. He trusted God's leading, although his impatience and hot-headedness caused him some trouble. 

Moses knew to trust God's leading. Do I? 

"Remember how the Lord your God led you all the way in the wilderness these forty years, to humble and test you in order to know what was in your heart, whether or not you would keep his commands." -Deuteronomy 8:2

There are so many days that things seem confusing or unclear, but we are not alone. Never. He is our good, good shepherd. His Holy Spirit is with us, until the end of these days. 

 Today, I am grateful God is leading. 

Time in Nature

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 321: Today, I am grateful for a little time in nature. 

We were at the park yesterday with a purpose, but I was reminded of the beauty in this season... even as fall's beauty is almost spent. The sun was warm. The wind was minimal. The company was perfect. And, I cannot help but be reminded that we were intended to get outside. 

"Of all the paths you take in life, make sure a few of them are dirt.  -John Muir

If you look a little closer, the beauty is not gone... it has simply changed. It is less showy and more humble. Little red berries on a bush once overshadowed by the maples, the elms, and the oaks, now add the color to the landscape. 

"Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name; proclaim his salvation day after day. Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples. " -Psalm 96:1-3

Where is nature showing off around you today? Look a little closer and you will see the wonder. 

Today, I am grateful for a little time in nature. 

Prayers for Guidance

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 320: Today, I am grateful for prayers for guidance. 

"I will pray for guidance." is the last scroll in Og Mandino's book "The Greatest Salesman in the World." It is a wonderful book to read before Christmas or Easter. It is about living well with a moral compass. It is not "religious" in nature, but it is full of truth. It will always be one of my favorite books. 

Have you ever read directions that were too technical for you to understand? Most of us have. We can read and not understand many things. I love David's heart that desires to understand God's truth in this Psalm. 

"Open my eyes to see the wonderful truths in your instructions." Psalm 119:18

From the House of David would come the Messiah. I love reading Isaiah this time of year to capture the wonder of the prophecies made. Then, we jump to Matthew or Luke and watch them unfold in the form of a baby, a bride-to-be, and a man who walked with her to Bethlehem. Just because His truths and plans for us are good, it does not mean they always make sense as they are unfolding. Some days are hard. I am grateful we can pray for guidance. 

Today, I am grateful for prayers for guidance. 

Family Dinners

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 319: Today, I am grateful for family dinners.

Our lives are full and schedules do not easily match up. I am grateful for anytime we sit around the table as a family. My friend, Carol Jankowski, was the first time I heard the phrase, "the days are long but the years are short." She spoke those words a long time ago outside the doors of Lincoln School. I've carried them in my heart ever since. I know she was not the first to say them, but it was a first for me.

When we sit down, it does not have to be fancy. One of our favorite meals is a baked potato bar. Easy, and everyone is happy.

Hot Pot is another favorite, but it takes a little more planning. I love taking a trip to the Asian Market as a team for the things we cannot find in our local grocery store. Our first Hot Pot adventure was in Florida. Shared meals are such a blessing.

November begins the season of family meals that last through New Years. There are so many traditions, handed down recipes, and a lifetime of stories as well as new ones being made.

There is always room at the table for more. My parents loved a full farm table. I learned it from them. Our table can sit eight quite easily. There is always plenty to share.

“They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.” – Acts 2:46 

Don't forget to break bread together. It is good for the soul.

Today, I am grateful for family dinners.

Walker

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 318: I am grateful for Walker.

There are so many things in my heart as I think about all that Walker has added to our family and our world. I am so grateful God gave him to us. He made Chase a brother and completed our family of four (until we added the girls they chose).

I have so many more pictures that I could not find fast enough this morning. I should have planned ahead. He loves his family. His kindness to all living creatures is beautiful. His compassion runs deep and wide. 

Walker is a defender of those who are in harms way or cannot protect themselves. It is in his nature. He is patient, humble, and kind. We wish him the most amazing day. God knit him together in the most unique way. He brings smiles, wit, laughter, and wonder. He always has. 

"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him." -Psalm 127:3

We are grateful for you, Walker. "We love you forever and like you for always." Always. We are grateful you have found a sweet love in Amber to guard your heart and make your journey sweeter. 

Today, I am grateful for Walker.

The Smell of Clean

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 317: Today, I am grateful for the smell of clean. 

I love the smell of a clean house, clean sheets, clean laundry, and clean air. Each is a unique blessing on its own. To sum it up in one sentence, I love the smell of clean. 

It was such a delight to have my youngest come through the door and say, "I love the smell of mopped." In our house, it is usually Pine Sol, but I use Mrs. Meyer's cleaning products, too. 

Savor the things that smell clean to you. Reframe the chore from the perspective of having a purpose and a goal. Bring on the clean! 

"Purify me from my sins, and I will be clean; wash me, and I will be whiter than snow." -Psalm 51:7

Today, I am grateful for the smell of clean.

Glimmers

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 316: Today, I am grateful for glimmers.  

Glimmers: Glimmers are the opposite of triggers. They're those tiny moments of joy, awe, and peace that cue our nervous system to feel safe, calm, and connected." -Marina Wright

We can choose to look for the "glimmers" in our days. The opposite of "triggers," they are tiny moments of joy, awe, and peace that speak to our nervous systems... and our souls. 

Last night there was an amazing sky. Gorgeous and unusual. I was blessed to receive two images by text/email. You cannot look at such beauty without a response. A night sky lit with color is amazing. 

When children play sweetly together, it is beautiful. When the coffee pot is full just when you need it... that is a glimmer and a blessing, too. 

I think glimmers are the unexpected graces we witness every day, but we must tune our brains to the right frequency to receive them. 

"Look after each other so that none of you fails to receive the grace of God. Watch out that no poisonous root of bitterness grows up to trouble you, corrupting many." -Hebrews 12:15

Look for the glimmers. Grant grace after grace to each other and to yourselves. Seek His face. 

Today, I am grateful for glimmers.  

Veterans Day

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 315: Today, I am grateful for Veterans Day. 

Today is a day we remember our veterans. On the 11th day... of the 11th month... at the 11th hour... it was the real end of WWI. The fighting would finally stop. The treaty was signed June 28, 1919, however, the fighting ceased seven months earlier.  An armistice, or temporary cessation of hostilities, between the Allied nations and Germany went into effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month. For that reason, November 11, 1918, is generally regarded as the end of “the war to end all wars.” 

President Wilson called it Armistice Day in 1919. The day has taken on some changes as the generation who lived it were fewer and fewer. Wars continued and courageous men and women took up arms and put themselves in harm's way to defend their country and all that they loved back home. Veterans Day honors them all. 

I am grateful we continue to hold on to the 11/11 date to keep the history alive. 

I've heard the story many times of a gentleman arriving in France with a passport to be stamped. Someone assumed it was his first time in France to which he said, "No, but it is the first time to have my passport stamped." The agent was confused and asked when he had been there previously without a passport. He replied, "The last time I was here  was on June 6, 1944. I arrived on a ship off the banks of Normandy." D-Day is remembered as the beginning of the end of WW2. 

I am always moved by the stories. These wars were fought on the battlefields and by ordinary citizens who secretly did all they could do to resist the evils in front of them. Those veterans did not talk about the things they saw and the things they were called to do on the frontlines. I only recently learned that my Grandmother's brother and his family were at Pearl Harbor on December 7th. So were a couple of her cousins. They all survived, but so many did not. (Thanks, Cindy St. John for sharing the stories and pictures.) 

Our Veterans of yesterday and today carry the weight of the memories made in the rice paddies of Vietnam and in the war on terror in unfamiliar desert lands. I am grateful for the ones who signed up for the unknown and served with courage. I am grateful for their continued service in our communities in many different ways upon coming home. Many are grateful for the GI Bill that offered them educational opportunities after their service. 

"Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends." -John 15:13

We salute them today with much deserved honor and respect. Sometimes, there are no words. 

Today, I am grateful for Veterans Day. 

Working Together

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 314: Today, I am grateful that working together is better. 

It is true. At work, at home, at church, and in the community. On our own, we can only do so much. Together, we can make a difference. 

One of our congregational members is in Asheville, NC, leading a crew with Mennonite Disaster Services. Once the news stories stop is when the true rebuilding begins. The needs are many. 

Our MHS Marching band gave a spectacular show on Saturday for the community. Beyond the exceptional talent of the band and directors, it is a community of parents and supporters that make sure they have everything they need to give their best performance possible. 

The local food banks and churches are busy finding ways to feed the hungry and clothe the poor. 

Heading off to an ordinary work week... even in the daily grind of the ordinary... we are better together. 

"Two people are better off than one, for they can help each other succeed.  If one person falls, the other can reach out and help. But someone who falls alone is in real trouble." Ecclesiastes 4:9-10

Today, I am grateful that working together is better. 

Fluffy Snow Behind Stained Glass

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 313: Today, I am grateful for fluffy snow behind a stained glass window.   

Our church building was built around 1965. The sanctuary is traditional, mid-century modern with beautiful stained glass windows. I love it when the light comes shining through, but they are opaque enough that you cannot truly see what is behind the windows. 

Today, the Love-of-my-Life leaned over and said, it is snowing. I thought he was joking at first, but then I looked.  On the other side of the stained glass window, we could see snow was softly coming down in big, fluffy flakes. We could see the size of the flakes and the motion of the snow falling more than we could really see the actual flakes. 

The morning sun was coming through creating a silhouette of the flakes as they danced to the ground. Pastor Andrew actually had a silhouette image as part of the message today. I wonder if he even knew God was backing him up outside. 

When we got to the car, there were a few flakes where you could see the intricacies of the design. The day was warm and not windy. Most flakes were melting on impact as the temperatures were teetering on freezing and the sun warmed the metal on the car. 

The weather can be moody this time of year. We never know what a 24-hour time period might bring. Look for the good things and  you will find them. Pause to take in nature's wonder. I do not love winter, but without the winter, there would be no fluffy snowflakes.

This verse captures the transition from fall to winter that is coming soon. 

“Like a snow-cooled drink at harvest time is a trustworthy messenger.” -Proverbs 25:13

The little flurry today was refreshing and beautiful.

Today, I am grateful for fluffy snow behind a stained glass window. 

Purpose

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 312: Today, I am grateful for purpose. 

"Do what you can with what you have, where you are."

It is a great little quote. We can't do everything, but we can do something. Take it one day at a time. 

This past week, some students from one of our local grade schools made their way to a local memory care facility. They call themselves the "Ambassadors." The pictures were extra sweet. 

You could feel the compassion and patience that flowed from the students, and the residents were so excited to have the students visit.  I am not sure who had the bigger smiles. It is an example of doing what you can, right where you are. 

I am grateful for the teacher who is willing to help organize the opportunities for youth to serve at school and in the community. She is pretty special. 

To be filled with love that comes from a pure heart is evidence of a clear conscience and genuine faith. It is not about what you have, but what you can give. Time, attention, and gentle compassion are too often in short supply. 

"The purpose of my instruction is that all believers would be filled with love that comes from a pure heart, a clear conscience, and genuine faith." -1 Timothy 1:5

Today, I am grateful for purpose. 

Speak Light

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 311: Today, I am grateful we can speak light. 

Encouragement is a powerful thing. Believing in someone helps them believe in themselves. Not false flattery, but simply brushing away anything that dulls their unique sparkle. 

"Speak light into someone's shadows. Quiet their fears with kindness. Remind them they are brace, beautiful, and made of stardust. In a world that forgets, be someone who remembers." -Dede Hawkins

For centuries, the media has been telling us how to dress and do our hair. From magazines and films to social media, I am not sure how many truly came away feeling better about themselves. Most will feel they missed the mark. 

The daily grind can leave us weary. Encountering encouragement at the right moment is a recharge. Some resist at first, but press on. Like a sparkler, a brief moment of glittering light can be just what someone needs. 

My friend, Patti Massaglia , gave me a sign that sits in my office. It is from this scripture: 

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

She is an amazing encourager. She is a life changer for students who struggle. She is glitter and sparkle. My friend, Clara Jo Ogden always says, "Be a Barnabas." Barnabas was an encourager in the Bible by his friendship, generous spirit, and showing up when people needed him. He encouraged the tired, the lonely, and those in need. We can do that, too. 

Today, I am grateful we can speak light. 

Night and Day

  

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 310: Today, I am grateful for night and day. 

Og Mandino is one of my favorite authors. "The Greatest Salesman in the World," "The Greatest Miracle in the World," and "Mission Success" are my favorites, but I love them all. Choices, resilience, and positivity are strong themes. 

He was a bombardier in WW2, flying 30 missions over Germany. Actor Jimmy Stewart was a fellow pilot. His experiences gave material for "Mission Success." 

"I love the light for it shows me the way, yet I will endure the darkness because it shows me the stars." -Og Mandino

It is so true. We need both. From the Sun... and the Son... comes light and life. In the darkness, our human bodies restore for the new day and the stars delight us with their sparkle across the sky. 

"God called the light “day” and the darkness “night.” And evening passed and morning came, marking the first day." -Genesis 1:5

Day and night each hold unique beauty. Nocturnal animals are fascinating, too. Built for the night life, they display some quirky abilities and skills by design to rule the night. 

Walk in the sun. Delight in the dark. God said both are good. 

Today, I am grateful for night and day.

The Work of our Hands

 

 Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 309: Today, I am grateful for the work of our hands. 

We were created to create. Made in the image of a creative God, humans thrive on the work of their hands. Baking, sewing, woodworking, farming, caring for animals, caring for children, tending to the sick, writing code, and of course, art. Creating meets a need that is in our DNA. It feeds our souls. 

"In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. So God created human beings[a] in his own image. In the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." -Genesis 1:1, 27

My goodness, we have even become creative with our coffee. From black, cream, or sugar, there are a hundred ways to serve up our favorite morning drink. 

The work of our hands brings satisfaction to our souls. Sharing what we make with one who appreciates it is a gift for both the creator and the recipient. When we take delight in the work of our hands, joy blooms. Not happiness... the momentary and the fleeting... but joy in doing what God designed us to do. 

Today, I am grateful for the work of our hands. 

Burnt Toast Theory

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 308: Today, I am grateful for the burnt toast theory. 

I believe this, as I have seen evidence many times in my life. A short delay means missing a traffic accident or some other dangerous scenario. It can mean not being hit by a deer or encountering someone with less than good intentions in a parking lot. 

"For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go." -Psalm 91:11

My first professional job after college began when I was rear-ended on University Ave. in Peoria. A long story, but Officer Bob Youngman... I will never forget your kindness. 

Look for the miracles and the Master Minstrel in the moments... good and bad. Never cry over burnt toast. 

Today, I am grateful for the burnt toast theory. 

Monday Morning Power Songs

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 307: Today, I am grateful for power songs.

I tend to catalog songs in my head. I enjoy music from most genres. Lyrics combined with the perfect melody often land a song on my "power songs" or my "soul songs" lists. I have my "patriotic songs" and "ballads," too. Favorite "worship songs," too. Music is a part of everyday living. 

Mondays often require something from the "power songs" list. Dress for success and bring the right music, too. There is something about Garth Brooks' song, "Rodeo" that talks about the passion for what the cowboy does that reminds me of work ethic and commitment. A new one by Emerson Day seems to be on the radio on the way to work. "Get Behind Me" is quite a power song, as is "Goodbye Yesterday."

What we fill our heads and hearts with can change our days. 

"May the words of my mouth and the meditation of my heart be pleasing to you, O Lord, my rock and my redeemer." -Psalm 19:14

Today, I am grateful for power songs

Julie's Hour

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 306: Today, I am grateful Julie got her hour back. 

We have come to call it "Julie's Hour" in our house. Our Julie does not appreciate having an hour stolen in the spring. Today was a day of rejoicing because Julie got her hour back. There might have been a little happy dancing going on in the house of the Lord this morning. I was happy to dance. There was some serious joy overflowing. 

There are hundreds of ways to spend that extra hour. Sleeping, for me, is probably the best choice, but for many of us, we want a chance to do the thing we never have time to do. An extra hour of reading... or even cleaning up an email box. 

We are doing a gratitude challenge at work and those were a few of the things mentioned. I find myself getting such big ideas for that extra hour, it is easy to waste it away. In a week, my body will adjust, but for now, it feels like "sleeping in." 

Time is truly more precious than gold. I thought of this scripture about Jesus's return:

“So you, too, must keep watch! For you do not know the day or hour of my return." Matthew 25:13

It was a beautiful fall day to enjoy our extra hour. 

Today, I am grateful Julie got her hour back. 

Uniquely Fall... Like Fires

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 305: Today, I am grateful for uniquely fall activities... like fires.

We all have our favorite fall activates. For us, sitting around a fire with family and friends is good. The scent of the wood, the S'mores, the hot dogs, and the laughter that always shows up. This is what "tribe" looks like. 

Every culture knows the need for warmth is the difference between life and death. We need fire/heat to survive. Cooking in a big pot over a fire with friends is possibly a part of what makes camping so popular. Do our human hearts long for a more simple life that focuses on what we need for this day... like our daily bread? 

Friday night fires are a tradition we practiced with family, neighbors, and friends when the weather was just right. Not too hot. Not too cold. Just right. We have so many memories of those evenings. C.S. Lewis once wrote this in a letter:

“Is any pleasure on earth as great as a circle of Christian friends by a good fire?” -C.S. Lewis, Letters of C.S. Lewis

He is right. In this world where the current temperature is set at "How can I be offended?" I cannot help but wonder if the way communication has changed is partially to blame. 

We rarely disconnect from our devices. (I have them, too, so I am truly self-reflecting.) Around a fire we just chat. And sometimes, there is silence as we listen to the snap, crackle, and pop. We delight in the colors. We feel the warmth. The family dinner table is nearly lost, too. That is another place we can connect... and it is best phone free. 

There is something about many fall activities that interrupt our technology driven lives. Apple orchards, choosing a pumpkin at a local farm, a corn maze, pumpkin carving, football games, baking, festivals, canning, baking, and nights by a fire. Fall encourages us to disconnect and reconnect. 

Sometimes God speaks in the fire:

"There the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the middle of a bush. Moses stared in amazement. Though the bush was engulfed in flames, it didn’t burn up.  “This is amazing,” Moses said to himself. “Why isn’t that bush burning up? I must go see it.” When the Lord saw Moses coming to take a closer look, God called to him from the middle of the bush, “Moses! Moses!” “Here I am!” Moses replied. “Do not come any closer,” the Lord warned. “Take off your sandals, for you are standing on holy ground.” -Exodus 3:2-5

It is one of my favorite verses. I love being shoeless, but not around a fire. The bush did not burn and Moses was not injured. And, he knew that he must respect the holiness of God. If the fire speaks, it is a good idea to listen. 

Today, I am grateful for uniquely fall activities... like fires.