The Incarnation

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 347: Today, I am grateful for the incarnation. 

The incarnation of Jesus is one of those concepts that is hard to wrap my head around at times. To commit thirty-three trips around the sun in human form that included hunger, pain, sorrow, and all of the other things we feel is mind boggling to me. 

I love this quote from a Max Lucado book: 

"God became a man.  While the creatures of earth walked unaware, Divinity arrived.  Heaven opened herself and placed her most precious one in a human womb. The omnipotent, in one instant, made himself breakable.  He who had been spirit became pierce-able. He who was larger than the universe became an embryo.  And he who sustains the world with a word chose to be dependent upon the nourishment of a young girl." -God Came Near, Max Lucado

The full legitimacy of His human experience began in the womb of a teenage girl. She was no expert. Joseph was not, either, but together, they would figure it out. They would know the difficult and the wondrous... and in a tiny town called Bethlehem, heaven and earth would collide with the birth of a baby boy who would change the course of history. 

Angels would sing. Wisemen would follow a star. Shepherds would witness the glory of the newborn King in his mother's arms as his earthly father watched over them both. Is it any wonder we continue to be in awe of the nativity of Christ? 

What kind of love leaves heaven for earth's human trials and troubles? 

This was my verse for the day: 

"We know how much God loves us, and we have put our trust in his love. God is love, and all who live in love live in God, and God lives in them." -1 John 4:16 NLT

What kind of love? The kind of love that submitted to a womb... and then a manger... and then a carpenter's table... and then a cross and a tomb. All of these sacrifices were made for us. It is a love like no other. I do not have to understand it to drink the living water and experience the light of His love. 

Today, I am grateful for the incarnation. 

Nights by the Fire

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 346: Today, I am grateful for the nights by the fire. 

When we purchased our current home nearly 30 years ago, we were so excited about the wood burning fireplace. Thirty years later, it is still one of our favorite things. 

We love it at autumn's first chill. We treasure its magic on Christmas morning. We savor it when the winter temperatures dip low. The scent fills the neighborhood and my heart. 

As I looked for the perfect scripture, this one showed up in my search. I thought it was great advice as we head into the holiday season. Too much time on social media is not good for the soul. Showing grace in our conversations and avoiding gossip is always a wise choice. 

"Fire goes out without wood, and quarrels disappear when gossip stops. A quarrelsome person starts fights as easily as hot embers light charcoal or fire lights wood. -Proverbs 26:20-21

Make moments and memories this season. Build bridges not walls. Delight in the wonder of a fire in the fireplace... or pull one up on the television screen if you do not have a fireplace. You can enjoy the crackles and the glow, even without the heat. 

Today, I am grateful for the nights by the fire. 

Magic Makers

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 345: Today, I am grateful for the magic makers. 

They are the ones who are up late and up early attending to the details of this busy Christmas season. They are the magic makers. I might cook and clean, but the Love of My Life does so much this season to help get ready for our celebrations. I am so grateful for his helping hands. 

Magic makers are everywhere in our lives. They go unnoticed at times. They are the kitchen committees in our churches and the maintenance and custodial teams. They are in early and stay late. Sometimes, they get tired, too. 

"For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of what we eat or drink, but of living a life of goodness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit. If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too. -Romans 14:17-19

God sees you. We see you. Thank you. 

Today, I am grateful for the magic makers. 

Wednesday Giggle

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 344: Today, I am grateful for a Wednesday giggle. 

"Don't mess with me! I'm a wooden spoon, lead paint, no car seat, no bike helmet, pickup bed ridin', garden' hose drinkin' survivor." 

This image made me giggle. It captured my childhood in a nutshell. 

It is hump day! The days are fuller than ever this time of year. There always seems to be more on the "to do" list than time allows. We will survive it one task at a time. 

Take on the day. You can do it. Remember to take some time to "be still." 

"“Be still, and know that I am God! I will be honored by every nation. I will be honored throughout the world.” -Psalm 46:10

Today, I am grateful for a Wednesday giggle. 

Small Doses of Novelty

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 343: Today. I am grateful for small doses of novelty. 

"Studies show that short, novel experiences - a day trip, an unplanned hike, exploring a new street - boost dopamine and reset mood. You do not need a grand vacation. You need interruption. The brain thrives on small doses of novelty. Routine keeps you alive. Novelty makes you feel alive." - unknown

Yes! We all need a little novelty in our lives. Good interruptions can help us reset our day and our perspectives. Random acts of kindness do this. Sending someone an encouraging note can, too. Try a new morning beverage brand or flavor. It is not a big commitment, but new discoveries abound when we take a tiny step out of our everyday routines. 

I cannot help but think of Mary when an angel interrupted her ordinary life to invite her into the most amazing plot twist in her life. 

"Gabriel appeared to her and said, “Greetings ,favored woman! The Lord is with you!” Confused and disturbed, Mary tried to think what the angel could mean.  “Don’t be afraid, Mary,” the angel told her, “for you have found favor with God!" Luke 1:28-30

A strange man shows up with some big news about an unexpected novel path for her life. "Greetings" was what he said. She was surely shocked. But then he called her "favored." "Kecharitomene," the original Greek word translated “favored one,” means having received favor, mercy or grace. It does not mean “full of grace.” She was favored and chosen. She was not full of grace, but she would carry grace in her womb. Imagine her pregnancy glow! 

Talk about a reset on her day, her week, her month, and her life. From wedding planning to baby planning without experiencing the typical path to pregnancy. A new chapter was not only beginning in her life, but the baby she carried would save the world. 

Today. I am grateful for small doses of novelty.

Snow Brush

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 342: Today. I am grateful for a snow brush.

The winter is so much easier to bear when you have the right tools (and a warm coat). I am not very tall so it is difficult to brush snow from my car windows without a tool to help. The snow brush is a simple tool that makes a world of difference. 

It requires no batteries or a power cord. It quietly sits in the back of your vehicle until it is needed. It shortens the work of gets you on the road faster.       

"He sends the snow like white wool; he scatters frost upon the ground like ashes." -147:16

On this 8th day of December, we still have snow on the ground from the Thanksgiving weekend storm. I cannot remember the last time we had snow on the ground every day of December. We will see what the week brings. There are some warmer temperatures ahead. The snow may disappear or a little more may fall. If it comes, I am grateful for the right tools.                                                

Today. I am grateful for a snow brush. 

2nd Sunday of Advent

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 341: Today I am grateful for the second Sunday of Advent. 

With a focus on the prophecies of the Messiah in the Old Testament. So many years from the prophecy to the coming of Jesus that many missed it. It seems so clear to us. We can pick up our Bibles and read it clearly. 

Our Sunday school lesson included the best quote from Max Lucado's book "When God Came" but I cannot find it. When looking, I found another from the book that is perfect:

“She touches the face of the infant-God. How long was your journey! This baby had overlooked the universe. These rags keeping him warm were the robes of eternity. His golden throne room had been abandoned in favor of a dirty sheep pen. And worshiping angels had been replaced with kind but bewildered shepherds. Meanwhile, the city hums. The merchants are unaware that God has visited their planet. The innkeeper would never believe that he had just sent God into the cold.” ― Max Lucado, God Came Near: God's Perfect Gift 

Are we so different today? We are so busy that it is easy to miss the moments that matter. 

The incarnation is such a miracle. That God's seed would grow in the womb of an ordinary girl who was loved by an ordinary man. The Bible is clear that she was untouched by Joseph. No intimacy shared in marriage consummation. Yet, Joseph cared for her so tenderly as she carried God's son. Did it feel like a dream? 

The trip from Nazareth to Bethlehem was surely long and difficult with her pregnancy being full term. Seriously, I cannot imagine her discomfort. Did they question God when there was no room in the inn? 

“In Bethlehem in Judea,” they said, “for this is what the prophet wrote: ‘And you, O Bethlehem in the land of Judah, are not least among the ruling cities of Judah, for a ruler will come from you who will be the shepherd for my people Israel. (Micah 5:2)’ " -Matthew 2:5-6

The Bread of Life was about to arrive in Bethlehem. Bethlehem means "House of Bread." God wove so many intricacies into the birth of His Son. He had been waiting for the right time and the right couple. It all came together as promised. He keeps his promises. 

Today I am grateful for the second Sunday of Advent. 

Peppermint Tea

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 340: Today I am grateful for Peppermint Tea. 

I do not have tea every day,  but I drink it often. I prefer the herbals, but have some favorites like a  "London Fog" made with Lady Grey with a little lavender, too. Peppermint Tea is one of my top 10 favorite teas. Probably, it makes the top 5, but I did not make a list. 

Twinings has a shop at Epcot that is one of the most charming shops in the World Showcase. I love to take my time looking for something I have not seen before. 

I am reminded again and again that there is healing in plants and herbs. I've used them often. Mama Ina Mae taught me well. Peppermint tea is wonderful for tummy troubles. It is a cozy choice at the end of the day and it will not keep  you awake. 

Mama always had mint tea in the tea basket. My personal favorite in childhood is one she and my sweet Uncle Lee favored. It was "Boston's Creme de Menthe" and it came in a tin that could be recycled to keep treasures. My dear roommate, Laurie Jean, and I drank it in college on many nights. Mint is marvelous... and peppermint is my favorite. 

"Fruit trees of all kinds will grow along both sides of the river. The leaves of these trees will never turn brown and fall, and there will always be fruit on their branches. There will be a new crop every month, for they are watered by the river flowing from the Temple. The fruit will be for food and the leaves for healing.”-Ezekiel 47:12

The Christmas season is the perfect time to pull out the peppermint tea. Sharing it with a friend is even better! 

Today I am grateful for Peppermint Tea. 

Songs of Winter

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 339: Today I am grateful for the songs of winter. 

There are not really that many that come instantly to mind. "Baby It's Cold Outside" comes to mind, but there are others. "Let It Go" is more recent from Disney's movie "Frozen." Here are a few more:

"Oh What a Night-Late December '63"
"Hazy Shade of Winter"
"Cold as Ice"
"Jingle Bells" (Thanksgiving song)
"Let Is Snow"

"Snowbird" 

"Do You Want to Build a Snowman"

I am sure every genre has a few. Music is powerful. It can change our mood and our mindset. I am grateful for any song that helps me embrace the winter days. Again, I am reminded that all seasons come for a reason... including winter. The snow provides the earth with water. A good freeze has its purpose, too. 

“For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven,  and do not return there without watering the earth and making it bear and sprout, and furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;" -Isaiah 55:10

A winter playlist is a great way to survive January and February. 

Today I am grateful for the songs of winter. 

A Glimpse of Color

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 338: Today, I am grateful for a glimpse of color in winter.

There has been snow on the ground every day this December. Of course, it is only December 4th, but it feels like a long time since we have had this kind of a start to winter. Eight inches of snow that sticks. 

There is beauty in the blanket of snow. It makes me see the glimpses of color on the landscape better. An artist calls it "white space." In this case, the snow is literally white.  It makes the colors stand out. 

What unexpected glimpse of color do you see out your window? If you live near the beach, it may be sea glass in the sand. If you live in the desert, it might be a cactus in bloom. Nature is full of wonder and color. 

“God saw all that he had made, and it was very good.” – Genesis 1:31

"Let heaven and nature sing." 

Today, I am grateful for a glimpse of color in winter.

Ornament Memories

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 337: Today, I am grateful for ornament memoires. 

One of the sweetest parts of unpacking the Christmas tree ornaments each year are the memories that flood back. When you have nearly 40 years of memories in a box, it is a trip back in time. 

On our crystal tree, we have ornaments we purchased the first year we were married after Christmas at Bergners in Sheridan Village in Peoria. Over the years, a few of the glass icicles have broken, but many remain and are carefully packed away each January. 

On our family tree, the most special ornaments are the ones related to our boys in different seasons of life. The grade school handmade treasures, with school pictures are classics. Precious and priceless! The ornaments from vacations or mile markers in the boys' lives. 

It is not always the prettiest ornaments that capture our hearts, but the ones that remind us that we are loved, treasured, and remembered. 

“What is the price of five sparrows—two copper coins? Yet God does not forget a single one of them." -Luke 12:6

Savor the memories. 

Today, I am grateful for ornament memoires.

The Power of Light

 

Daily Gratitude Year 13 - Day 334: Today, I am grateful for the power of light. 

We have been through power outages. In our home, it is not common, but when it happens... it is a reminder of the blessing of light and power at the flip of a switch. (And the blessing of neighbors who generously share their generator.)

Light changes everything. We were told to go out and be salt and light. "Be the change" means being a change agent. 

In English, the sun and the Son are homophones. Homophones are words that sound the same but have different meanings. Interestingly, they have similar qualities. Ultimately, the Son was present at the creation of the sun. (John 1:1) 

The earth relies on the sun for light and life as our sweet little blue planet makes its orbit around the sun each year. In the same way, we rely on (or reject) the Son who came to be the Light of the Word in a time when much seemed dark and hopeless. Had God's people stopped looking for the Messiah? Is that why they missed him? We have to close our eyes to not see light.  

The number of prophecies fulfilled in Jesus is mathematically mind boggling. Psalm 22 was written long before Jesus carried the cross to Golgotha and soldiers gambled for his robe. It gives me chills to read it even now. (John 19:23-25)

If Christ had arrived in this modern time, would we have recognized the prophecies fulfilled? Would we have believed and received? Would we have ignored the obvious? 

I love light. I rarely pull window shades, even in the summer's heat. I need the light and the Light. Both change my days. 

"The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness can never extinguish it." John 1:5 

Today, I am grateful for the power of light. 

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.