Refocus

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 31: Today, I am grateful we can refocus. 

"Gratitude lifts our eyes off the things we lack so we can see the blessings we possess."-Max Lucado

Refocusing our eyes takes a little effort. We must be intentional when we shift a mindset. Many find it easier to look down than up, but if you are looking down, you miss some of the good stuff. 

What do we lack? There is a vast difference between want and need, yet the lines blur  when we live with abundance. 

I know that many are suffering as this winter storm has brutalized areas that do not usually receive harsh winter weather. Many are without electricity and their homes are not built for hard winters, neither are their wardrobes. 

There are, also, reports of ordinary people doing what they can to help those around them. They are kind, good, and compassionate people who step-up to feed, clothe, shelter, and care for those in need. Helping others is a way to refocus. 

"They share freely and give generously to those in need. Their good deeds will be remembered forever. They will have influence and honor." -Psalm 112:9

To share freely and give generously is good instruction. 

Today, I am grateful we can refocus. 

Favorite Cups

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 30: Today, I am grateful for my favorite cups. 

The cup you drink from matters. We all have favorite cups. Some are special because they are gifts from people we love. They are a part of a relationship and/or a memory. 

When Mama died, one of my cousins presented a tea basket of comfort and joy. Mama and her Dad (Uncle Lee) loved drinking tea together and talking about the Bible. Every time I use that large, big handled teacup. I think of here, the sentiment, and them sipping tea in Heaven in the presence of their Lord. Yes, one teacup has that kind of power. (Love you, Angie.)

I love any cup that allows me to grip with three or four fingers. For me, it adds to the pleasure. Weird? Maybe, but try it. Genetic gifted me with Grandma Mable's large hands. A dainty handle has never been my comfort. A large handle means I can easily wrap my hands around the warm cup in the morning. 

I've recently discovered Polish Pottery and there are some soup cups with the coolest large loop handles. They look more like a ladle than a bowl. It is art and practical... if a little on the pricey side. 

My tall, pink Longaberger mug is a favorite. It keeps me praying for those waking the path with breast cancer. My Sister-in-Love, Jennifer, hooked me on that mug and forgave me when I accidently broke one of hers. Thank goodness E-bay has everything to replace hers... and one for me, too.  

My little brother, Matt, picked up a large hot pink water water cup in St. Thomas that makes me smile every time I see it. The man has been surrounded by women for most of his life. It holds equal parts of fun memories and water. No one steals his cup. 

The Love of My Life took a liking to a special elephant cup that was gifted to me by my scrapbooking friend, Kathy. We met through an online group, but the friendship is real. When she learned Randy would steal my cup, she sent him a lion mug that is identical, except the image. My elephant says "One step at a time" and his lion says "It's hard being king." We had the best time when she came for a real life visit. We think of her almost daily. 

The cup you drink from matters. 

This post made me think of the time Jesus prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane before he was taken to be crucified. 

“Father, if you are willing, please take this cup of suffering away from me. Yet I want your will to be done, not mine.” -Luke 22:42

Not every cup is a favorite. Some have a purpose. Some contain what is necessary and not what is desired. 

Today, I am grateful for my favorite cups. 

The Three G's

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 29: Today, I am grateful for the three G's.

"Begin each day with God, grace, and gratitude." -image from Comfort & Joy 

I love alliteration! This caught my eye. God, grace, and gratitude are a perfect way to start any day. There are so many ways to do that very thing, and it does not need to take much time. It is soul fuel... not just soul food. 

How we start the day matters. It sets a tone for the day. For me, it is my favorite time of day, but I know others were designed to start a little slower. 

Mama Ina Mae was a big believer and an example of starting the day off on the right foot. I do not recall her ever being grumpy in the morning. She had a daily job to do... a family to feed, a husband in a hurry, and children to get out the door for school. 

I think of her example of an ample supply of God, grace, and gratitude. This summation of life's meaning and purpose come from Paul:

"But my life is worth nothing to me unless I use it for finishing the work assigned me by the Lord Jesus—the work of telling others the Good News about the wonderful grace of God." -Acts 20:24

His prayer life was constant. Paul had met Jesus, tasted grace, and it changed him. He found ways to be grateful in all things. As a child, reading Acts used to scare me and make me sad. I missed the many good things packed in the pages. Bad things happened to people who were sharing love and hope, but they could not really lose. They knew the truth of the Good News. They were truly free. 

God, grace, and gratitude are a great way to get out the gate. 

Today, I am grateful for the three G's.

The Morning Mission

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 28: Today, I am grateful for the morning's mission. 

"Morning is God's way of whispering one more time: Make a difference. Touch a Heart. Encourage a Mind. Inspire a Soul. Enjoy the Day." -TobyMac, SPEAKLIFE

This hit at just the right place for me on this wintery morning. Even in the winter's pause, we each have a mission for this day. 

"Let me hear of your unfailing love each morning, for I am trusting you. Show me where to walk, for I give myself to you." Psalm 143:8

Show me the way for this day. It is a perfect prayer for the morning and a great way to start the day. 

Dress for the day and get on the way. Look for the little joys in the ordinary and mundane and pass them on.  

Today, I am grateful for the morning's mission. 

Heated Steering Wheels & Bun Warmers

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 27: Today, I am grateful for heated steering wheels and heated seats. 

These are truly luxury items in our vehicles. When Randy and I were married, not all cars in Michigan were sold without air-conditioning. Imagine that? Today, we do not see air-conditioning as a luxury feature, but as a necessity. 

My car only has "bun-warmers" but Randy's truck has both. Both are comfort changers on the coldest days. The heated seats get used any time of year there is an evening chill. 

Honestly, in these temperatures, a working heater and a car that starts is a blessing. I remember the years of kid cars and cold weather concerns about our teens' cars starting and their safety in the bitter parts of January and February. 

"Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus." -1 Thessalonians 5:18

This scripture is often quoted with the "all things" as the hard things. It is perfect for when we are offering gratitude for the luxuries in our life, too. Most of us have plenty to eat with some to share. We have cars that can get us to school, work, church, and many other activities with our families. 

If we have heated seats and/or steering wheels, savor them this morning. 

Today, I am grateful for heated steering wheels and heated seats. 

No Mosquitoes in Winter

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 26: Today, I am grateful for no mosquitoes in winter. 

When the cold goes on for days, we can look for the good. There are no mosquitoes in the winter.

I did a little reading. Some insect populations are impacted by extended deep cold. It can cause a decline in reproduction in the spring. Others survive by nature's design. 

We can celebrate the winter days without mosquitoes. 

"For everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven." -Ecclesiastes 3:1

As we long for warmer days, we can celebrate that these winter days are mosquito-free. 

Today, I am grateful for no mosquitoes in winter. 

The Cleansing Breath

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 25: Today, I am grateful for the cleansing breath. 

"Keep what is worth keeping, and with a breath of kindness, blow the rest away." -Dinah M. Craik

When I think about a "cleansing breath," I think about it as a way to fight anxiety. A cleansing breath is deep and refreshing. It is a great idea before beginning a presentation or taking the stage for performance. 

"And with a breath of kindness" is placed in the middle of a quote that could stand alone without it. But, it is "the breath of kindness" that changes everything. The intentional "kindness" adds choice in the midst of the things we cannot control. 

Life happens. Good things. Hard things. When we cannot choose the situation, we can still choose our attitudes. It is equally important to keep what is worth keeping. 

"For the life of every living thing is in his hand, and the breath of every human being." -Job 12:10

In our trials, we grow stronger. Great loss teaches us much. We do not want to lose the lessons learned. But, for the things that are not worth keeping... let them go with kindness. 

Today, I am grateful for the cleansing breath.

Better Questions

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 24: Today, I am grateful for better questions. 

"The best way to get a better answer is to start asking a better question." -Tony Robbins

Wouldn't it be easier if every question had a simple "yes" or "no?" Or if "True" and "False" could tell the whole story? There are some absolute truths. There are some absolutely false answers, wrong answers, and lies. 

There are bad questions, too. These kinds of questions show up on pop quizzes, health questionnaires, and in courtrooms during witness examinations. They can be trick questions. At times they are leading questions, and there is no door to open for important details to tell the rest of the story. 

My friend, Don, has had me thinking about "better questions." He has started a trend by asking a question of the day. I have always been a fan of open-ended questions. Raising boys, the answer to "How was your day at school?" was almost always going to be "Fine." if you were not creative with your questions. Don has asked some great ones, and we look forward to it daily. He has used it as a powerful culture and climate impacting tool. 

The right questions can open doors, provide insight, and help us communicate more effectively. Don has been intentional in asking questions in ways that can be answered in fun ways or thoughtful ways. Hearing the answers around me has been a true delight. 

People are talking about Don's questions in the kitchen, in the halls, and at the door. He wrote about his experiences and insights on his Substack, and he perfectly captured the power of better questions. He has caused me to be more intentional to not comment on the weather, unless it is positive. 

My sweet friend Cleve, did not enjoy "The Wagon Wheel" ice breaker game. We did it with every new class of students at Peoria Alternative High School. It was a new open-ended question... with a new person... every move of the wheel. Cleve was one of the best humans I have ever walked with daily, and it made me sad he did not enjoy it. The other team members knew he disliked it too, but sweet Cleve saw the value and did it for the kids... and for me if you hear the other team members tell the story. The students found things in common at their first meeting, and learned some unique things too. 

Open-ended questions are the ones you cannot answer with a yes, no, true, or false. 

There are many important and powerful questions in the Bible, but there is one that changes everything. It has implications for our souls that echo into eternity. 

"Then he asked them, “But who do you say I am?”" -Matthew 16:15

Better questions take practice and effort, but the rewards are bountiful. 

Today, I am grateful for better questions. 

Decision Makers

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 22: Today, I am grateful for the decision makers.

It is easy to criticize those who make the hard decisions. It would be better to pray for their wisdom. Wisdom is a gift from God. 

With the winter storm impacting so many people and places this weekend, it is hard to be the one making the decisions. The truth is that someone is always going to be unhappy. It is good to pray for our decision makers. 

Schools, travel, memorial services, weddings, and athletic events are impacted when weather concerns take over. 

I am grateful for those who make the call. I am grateful for those who show grace when they are disappointed by a cancelled plan. I am grateful for our first responders who get no break in the storm and go out in dangerous conditions. I am grateful for a cozy warm home with the Love-of-my-Life. 

"If you need wisdom, ask our generous God, and he will give it to you. He will not rebuke you for asking." -James 1:5

Whatever your week and weekend bring, stay safe. 

"Sometimes,  you just have to bow your head, say a prayer, and weather the storm." 

Today, I am grateful for the decision makers.

An Open Door

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 22: Today, I am grateful for an open door. 

The Congregational Church in Clifton, IL, is where my grandparents raised my Dad and Uncle Mel. It was the only church I remember being associated with the Lindgren family. It is the church where they came to know Jesus as Lord and Savior in adulthood. I was very young, but I remember the change.

This stained glass was a focal point of the sanctuary decor. We sat on that side of the church. Grandpa taught us to twirl our thumbs and offered us hard candy when we were wiggly. 

My Dad loved this window. It spoke to his soul when he realized that the door had no knob. Someone had to open it from the inside. For him, a light went on in his head and he finally understood the window he had stared at from a childhood. 

Jesus knocks on the door of our hearts. We can recognize him when we see him. He can call us by name. He knows who we are, but we have to open the door to invite him into our hearts. 

If we let him in, he sees our mess. He sees what is broken or simply worn out by the wear and tear of daily life. Perhaps, he will want us to change something. We fail to see that He only improves what he touches. His companionship makes every day better. Loneliness becomes quiet communion with the one who died so that we might live life with a wild abandon. 

Paul once said from a jail cell letter ... and I paraphrase... "If they kill me this time, I will have Heaven with my Lord. If they don't kill me this time, I will have more days to share the good news of the Gospel." 

Saul was a religious nut... and then he encountered Jesus and was changed. Saul became Paul. Ananias had to seek out Saul... who was responsible for the death of so many of his brothers and sisters in Christ... to lay hands on him so that he might see again as the Lord had instructed. In a vision, he was told where Saul/Paul would be. He knocked on the door and it was opened. He did as the Lord had instructed, and one of the greatest missionaries of all time was healed. (Acts 9)

As I look at this image I am reminded that we have to open the door and let him in... from the inside. (Thanks Dad for repeating that illustration so many times.)

“Keep on asking, and you will receive what you ask for. Keep on seeking, and you will find. Keep on knocking, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks, receives. Everyone who seeks, finds. And to everyone who knocks, the door will be opened." -Matthew 7:7-8

He never refuses the invitation to come in. Don't worry about the mess and the brokenness. He has seen worse. He will only make your days better. As a child once told me, "Jesus doesn't ask you to clean your room. He wants you to clean your heart." Open the door. He is only here to help. 

Today, I am grateful for an open door. 

Remote Start

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 21: Today, I am grateful for remote start. 

This week, all of the creature comforts that help us bear the winter's deepest chill. A remote start is one of them. 

My current vehicle is my first car with that feature (yes, we drive cars a long time) and it is a game changer. It helps the car get warmed up and the windows ready to clear before the drive home. Honestly, it takes longer to warm the car than it does to make my commute home, but I am grateful to have a warm vehicle and clear windows for the drive.  

A side-benefit is that I am much less crabby about the cold. I can focus on some of the beauty in winter's landscape. January is the remote start season. 

We cannot control the weather, but we can control our attitudes about the weather and toward each other. 

"When we arrived, the brothers and sisters in Jerusalem welcomed us warmly." -Acts 21:17

I hope the remote start (or attached garage) starts your day in a way that warms those you meet and greet. 

Today, I am grateful for remote start. 

The Heater's Hum

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 20: Today, I am grateful for the heater's hum.    

In the past 24 hours, I have been hearing the hum of the heater as it kicks on. What a blessing it is to have heat at the touch of a dial or button. A working heater gives us comfort, and it is lifesaving in these near zero temperatures. 

It is a good day to say a prayer for the protection and discernment of the HVAC technicians and electricians who go out on calls to problem solve in these bitter conditions. 

It is a great day to bless those who shelter the homeless in our communities. They rely on our gifts to keep the doors open. 

Waking up to heat is not just a blessing, it truly is the greatest of luxuries. The hum of the heater was like a lullaby last night and a reason to sing this morning. 

"And give thanks for everything to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ." -Ephesians 5:20

Today, I am grateful for the heater's hum.   

The Spoken Hope

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 19: Today, I am grateful for the spoken hope.  

"But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me." -Micah 7:7 (NIV)

Can you hear the confidence and expectation? Not knowing the time, but confident of the outcome. Help is on the way. 

There is something powerful in speaking our faith out load. Not just thoughts, but speaking what we believe. He delights in the confidence and praise of those who call him Savior, Lord, and King. 

"Faith shows the reality of what we hope for; it is the evidence of things we cannot see." -Hebrews 11:1 (NLT)

The Book of Hebrews defines its intended audience in the name, but those who are grafted in by the blood of Jesus can learn from it, too. He does not abandon His children. The timing may be unexpected. The answer can be "no" or "not yet." 

One thing is sure, He hears our prayers and delights in our seeking His face with humble hearts. His hand is mighty to protect, save, restore, and comfort. How can we be silent? 

Today, I am grateful for the spoken hope.

His Mercy

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 18: Today, I am grateful for His mercy.

Mercy is a beautiful thing. 

"But—When God our Savior revealed his kindness and love, he saved us, not because of the righteous things we had done, but because of his mercy. He washed away our sins, giving us a new birth and new life through the Holy Spirit." Titus 3:4-5

It is that fountain that flows deep and wide. We didn't earn it, yet He pours it out generously. It is His kindness and love that covers us, not anything we can do or accomplish. 

Do we live differently in light of His mercy? Do we choose kindness and love more easily in light of his grace? Every day offers new opportunities. 

Today, I am grateful for His mercy.

The Arts

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 17: Today, I am grateful for the arts.

"Painting is silent poetry, and poetry is painting that speaks." -Plutarch

I love the arts! I have observed over the centuries that humans recognize that art is special. Not everyone has the same gifts and abilities. There is an intrinsic value to art that is hard to define. 

The skill of the artist is only part of the story. When nations fall, the art, the gold, and the jewels are often gathered as the spoils of war. It is not unusual for some of the valuables to go missing in chaos of the transfer of the valuables. Decades later, there are times an item resurfaces. (Yes, I love the show "Antiques Roadshow.") Art is important to a nation's story and the story of a people or a culture. 

To think we can still see the things Michelangelo painted and sculpted after centuries fills me with a sense of respect and awe. My sister, April, was an artist. She often lost track of time when she started a piece. The artist pours themselves into a painting, a drawing, a sculpture, a piece of pottery, a clothing design, a vocal performance, a piece of writing, a musical composition, a piece of blown glass, a tapestry, a poem, or a jewelry design, not knowing how it will be received. Most artists carry a sense of vulnerability about the art they create, but passion keeps them creating. 

Some art requires steps. Others must be finished quickly. Some art springs from joy. Some flows from a wounded soul or a broken heart. What would the world be without art? 

God called upon the best craftsmen to create for His house and to His glory: 

"The Lord has given them special skills as engravers, designers, embroiderers in blue, purple, and scarlet thread on fine linen cloth, and weavers. They excel as craftsmen and as designers." -Exodus 35:35

Do not take for granted the creative side of your design. You were created in His image. Find your art and let it pour from your heart. Some create spreadsheets, organize closets, build homes, gardens, and even clean houses in a way that is more of an art than a task. 

Find your art and embrace it. Let it flow from your heart. 

Today, I am grateful for the arts. 

Live Well

 Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 16: Today, I am grateful for reminders to live well.

"How ironic that our highest calling is humility. 
To give quietly. 
To pray behind closed doors. 
To live small.
To be like the lilies of the field and the birds of the air. To carry our crosses daily. To choose the road less traveled. To cherish the ordinary day. The only thing we need to do with wild extravagance is love."  -ullie-kaye

I loved this quote. It is a simple reminder of how to live our best lives. 

Not one item on the list requires power, influence, or wealth. Each one is a reflection of our relationship with a God who promised he would never leave us or forsake us. 

"So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won’t be doing what your sinful nature craves." -Galatians 5:16

What do we crave? How do we live? Do we cherish the ordinary in each day?

Today, I am grateful for reminders to live well.

"The Next Thing"

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 15: Today, I am grateful for "the next thing." 

"Sometimes life is so hard you can only do the next thing. Whatever that it, just do the next thing. God will meet you there." -Elisabeth Elliot

I love Elisabeth Elliot's gentle wisdom. She knew sweet love. great loss, big adventures, and God's faithfulness. 

Some seasons in life are celebrations and others are filled with trial after trial. Typically, life is a mixed bag. On the hardest days, her advice is just do the next thing. 

When her husband died on the mission field, their daughter, Valerie, was 10 months old. Babies need to be fed and diapered. I imagine there were days and weeks when she only had energy for "the next thing." 

She made the decision to stay in Ecuador on the mission field with Valerie after Jim's death. She worked with the Quichua tribe and later lived with the Auca (Waodani) people, who had killed her husband, and fellow missionaries Nate, Ed, Pete, and Roger. In time, she would live with the very same people who speared her husband to death and her children would call one of them "Grandfather."  

She did "the next thing" that eventually led to hope and healing. God met her there. In her tears, exhaustion, and questions... God met her there. When she regrouped and made bold decisions to continue the work... God met her there. But first, in the moments of deepest sorrow and unknowns, she did not have to look for God. She did the next thing, and God met her there. 

Today, I am grateful for "the next thing." 

Proverbs 22:4

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 14: Today, I am grateful for Proverbs 22:4. 

"True humility and fear of the LORD lead to riches, honor, and long life." -Proverbs 22:4 NLT

This is one of those passages that it is fun to read in many translations. Biblegateway.com makes it easy. I like to squeeze every bit of sweetness and wisdom from the passage. I used blueletterbible.org if I want to explore the original Hebrew and Greek. 

Humility is not promoted much in this world, but when humble servants and leaders show up, the world does notice. 

This is a great quote from one of the deepest thinkers to ever pick up a pen.

"Humility is not thinking less of yourself; it is thinking of yourself less. Humility is thinking more of others." -C.S. Lewis

Solomon asked God for wisdom, and that wisdom was passed on in Proverbs so that we might learn, too. Humility is a response to genuine respect and love for God. 

Fear of the Lord is not terror, although He is fierce. Perhaps it is more like the "fear" of gravity. We do not jump from high places without a parachute. Gravity is a law we cannot ignore. Gravity has helped inventors solve real world problems. 

God's laws when broken have consequences, too. In contrast, seeking His face and searching for truth has endless benefits. 

Today, I am grateful for Proverbs 22:4. 

All of the Pieces

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 13: Today, I am grateful for all of the pieces. 

I found this great quote:

"I am pieces of all the places I have been, and the people I have loved. I've been stitched together by song lyrics, book quotes, adventure, late night conversations, moonlight, and the smell of coffee. - Brooke Hampton 

Every word rings true. All of the pieces come together uniquely in each one of us. It really is quite grand, isn't it? Life is a tapestry of places, people, music, lyrics, connections, nature, and the flavors woven into experiences and memories that make our souls sing. 

My head is dancing with old songs and sweet memories. Earworm cannot decide on just one. Favorite trips, special moments, and special songs all blend together. 

“But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren." -Deuteronomy 4:9

Save all of the pieces to revisit on a rainy day. Snuggle up with them on a cold winter's night. Write them down for your children and your grandchildren. 

Today, I am grateful for all of the pieces. 

Reminder to Get Started

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 12: Today, I am grateful for a reminder to get started.    

"The secret to getting ahead is getting started."

It is a great quote for a Monday. I love Mark Twain's wit and wisdom. He was a bold observer of the world around him.

Twain said what other people were thinking. He connected the dots when common sense was missing. His quotes often remind me that there are deep truths from generation to generation.

Getting started is the first hurdle in any day, week, or project; perseverance gets the job done.  

"Finishing is better than starting. Patience is better than pride." -Ecclesiastes 7:8 

Today, I am grateful for a reminder to get started.  

Like Home

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 11: Today, I am grateful for places that feel like home.  

"People aren't longing to be impressed, they are longing to feel like they're at home." -Shauna Niequist 

I think this statement holds some deep truths. There are times we arrive in new places, and feel out of place. There are other times, it quickly feels like home. To feel truly welcome makes us feel at home. 

Lazarus, Martha, and Mary were dear friends of Jesus. We are not told the back story, but there is something unique in his relationship with them. They recognized him as their Lord and Savior, but they opened their home with him as well. He shared time and meals with them. 

The relationship had an intimacy that meant when they called for Jesus to come and help their sick brother, they were devastated when he did not come instantly. Lazarus died and was buried before Jesus arrived in Bethany. Mary and Martha were devastated. 

In their joys and in their grief, Jesus was at home in their house.  He had sat with them for evening meals as dear friends. He came to share their grief and restore their joy. He wept with them, feeling their pain. Did he weep for their disappointment, too? 

"Then Jesus wept." -John 11:35

We do not know all of the details of the story. We know that Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead in a show of power, healing,  and restoration. No one who had been a part of the mourning for Lazarus could deny his resurrection.  

There is a special joy that comes from feeling truly welcome at a table, in a home, and with a family. 

Today, I am grateful for places that feel like home. 

Presence is a Present

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 10: Today, I am grateful that presence can be a present.  

As we embark on a fresh new  year, I cannot help but observe the desperate need for human connection in the world. Social media is lovely for staying connected with old friends and far away family. It was never meant to replace and fill the space of human connection in our world. 

Can we bravely step away from cell phones and other screens for real connections and conversation? What does it feel like when we do? True connections are rich. 

There was a time when both men and women took time to write letters. There is nothing like knowing someone sat down and took the time to think about you or the risk to share their heart. I used to love writing letters to my church camp friends. Long distance calls were deemed too expensive. I still love a letter or other happy mail.

Again today, I passed a very busy coffee shop. I love coffee... and many other warm beverages found in coffee shops in nearly every town. I prefer to support a small business, but the chains help us find the comforts of home everywhere we go.  Coffee shops are kind of a modern gathering place where people meet to connect. (Honestly, farmers have been meeting at grain elevators and gas stations for coffee all of my life, so maybe it isn't that modern.)  These are the places where we put down our devices and connect with friends and family. 

There is a passage in Hebrews that reminds of the importance of gathering together. 

"Let us think of ways to motivate one another to acts of love and good works. And let us not neglect our meeting together, as some people do, but encourage one another, especially now that the day of his return is drawing near." -Hebrews 10:24-25

At home, at church, in coffee shops, and wherever we find our feet... be present and savor His presences, too. 

Today, I am grateful that presence can be a present.

 

The Strength to be Gentle and Kind

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 9: Today, I am grateful that kindness and gentleness are really strengths. 

I loved this quote:

"It is never a weak thing to be kind and gentle.
In fact it takes strength to carry this yoke and
also wisdom to have compassion for those
that do not." -April Peerless

I am grateful for the reminder that meekness is really controlled strength. The world is full of sadness, hardships, evil, and bad things happen to people who are doing their best to do the right things. We are not guaranteed an easy life. We are expected to greet each day with our best efforts. 

When life is hard, you still have choices. Kindness and gentleness are more of a super power than hatred and violence. Anyone can lash out in anger. A spirit controlled life can be a climate changer at home, at work, and in the community. 

"Those who are dominated by the sinful nature think about sinful things, but those who are controlled by the Holy Spirit think about things that please the Spirit.  So letting your sinful nature control your mind leads to death. But letting the Spirit control your mind leads to life and peace. For the sinful nature is always hostile to God. It never did obey God’s laws, and it never will." -Romans 8:5-7

Today, I am grateful that kindness and gentleness are really strengths. 

 

Lotions

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 8: Today, I am grateful for lotions.

When winter takes a toll on our skin. I am grateful for my favorite lotions. I like them to feel and smell clean. I do not want to feel greasy. 

The one pictured has become a forever favorite. I go back to it again and again. It smells as clean as it feels, and it helps fund animal rescue and recovery. 

Perhaps that is exactly what a good lotion does. It rescues our skin from the elements. There is nothing like being rescued to make us pause and think. When we are helpless, we need a savior for our skin and for our souls. 

“Because he loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him; I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name. He will call on me, and I will answer him; I will be with him in trouble, I will deliver him and honor him." -Psalm 91:14-15

Today, I am grateful for lotions.

 

Keeping the Old Ways Alive

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 7: Today, I am grateful for things that keep the old ways alive. 

Our world of modern conveniences means we have lost some of the "old ways." Over the holidays I watched two videos that made me think about things we have lost to modern conveniences. 

One was shared "things our Grandmothers knew" that we have forgotten. Another was on Medieval gardens and what people ate in a time with no freezers or refrigeration. They relied on thing that grew nearly wild or in poor conditions. Both were fascinating. 

I knew some of the content because I spent much time in my grandmothers and mother's kitchens, but there were several herbs, vegetables, and root plants I was unfamiliar with that actually provide better nutrition than what we eat today.  

 "Is not wisdom found among the aged? Does not long life bring understanding?" - Job 12:12

Keep a journal, write in the margins of your cookbooks or on your recipe cards, and make notes in your Bibles where the things you know about life and have learned about God can be passed on. 

Today, I am grateful for things that keep the old ways alive. 

Potato Soup

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 6: Today, I am grateful for potato soup.

Years ago, my friend Cindy shared a potato soup recipe from her mother. The recipe was from her German family. It is simple and inexpensive. Potato soup is a true comfort food. This recipe has some of the same elements. I think it came from Dolly Parton. I might have to try it. Our local "Great Harvest" makes delicious potato soup, too. 

Why potato soup? It can typically be made with ingredients on the shelf or in the pantry. This recipe is no exception. Nothing says comfort like a warm bowl of soup for lunch or dinner. 

"Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling." -1 Peter 4:9

It is easy to make and easy to share. 

Today, I am grateful for potato soup.

Normal Schedules

 

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 5: Today, I am grateful for normal schedules.

We do not live far from the town of Normal, IL. It is a unique name for a town. What is normal? I think for most of us, it is being on a regular schedule to help us keep our days in order. 

The holiday season is wonderful. It is full of family, faith, friends, and fun. I especially enjoy days that are unscheduled with wide margins of free time. It is good to have a break from our ordinary days. 

Once the calendar year changes, it is time to head back to a normal schedule. Embrace the goodness in the normal schedules, too. The rhythm of our normal schedules provide comfort in the continuity. Every day has gifts. 

"Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom." -Psalm 90:12

Be patient with yourself. Getting back to "normal" can take a little extra effort. 

Today, I am grateful for normal schedules.

Differences Make Life Better

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 4: Today, I am grateful for the differences that make us better. 

This cartoon made me giggle. If you have both cats and dogs in your family, you understand how this image captures how dogs and cats differ in nature. 

Dogs want to serve and please you. Cats do their best to train you for their service and are willing to let you try again when you get it wrong. They both add richness to our lives. They are our fur-babies, and we love them all.

Living together in harmony means growing in knowledge and understanding. Like humans, not all cats and dogs are the same. Each has a personality, quirks, and preferences. 

This was my verse for the day:

"He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." -Micah 6:8

I love this verse for its clear direction as to how we should live. I cannot help but reflect on how acting justly, loving mercy, and walking humbly with our God looks different for each one of us. Within our individual personalities, strengths, and weaknesses, it is likely that at least one of these instructions does not come easy or naturally. I am amazed at the people who make the things I struggle with look easy. 

Our pastor frequently says, "More mercy." Live it. Give it. Accept it with gratitude. 

Acting justly and walking humbly require being intentional at times. With time and practice, they can become more reflexive. I am grateful for those who are good examples in our lives. 

Today, I am grateful for the differences that make us better. 

Radaph

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 3: Today, I am grateful for "radaph."

There are times it is good to go back to the original Hebrew(OT) or Greek(NT) for a deeper understanding of a verse or passage. Psalm 23:6 is a good example: 

"Surely your goodness and unfailing love will pursue me all the days of my life, and I will live in the house of the LORD forever." -Psalm 23:6

I remember how excited Mama was to get her Strong's Concordance. It allowed her to do deeper study of God's word on her own and with Bible Study friends. 

We are so blessed and spoiled to have Hebrew and Greek resources at the click of a button. We can cross-reference and check for deeper meanings any time we want. blueletterbible.org is one of my favorite websites. 

"Radaph" has a bigger meaning than simply following someone. It is more indicative of a hot pursuit or a chasing down so someone or a group of people do not get away. It is a bold pursuit with serious intentions. 

In the case of God's goodness and mercy, we often get ahead of his timing or wander off after something shiny on our own path. We forget to seek His face, but do not fret... He's after us. 

I love that this quote suggests God's mercy and goodness chase us like celestial stallions. It is a powerful image in our minds and a more powerful reality. 

Today, I am grateful for "radaph."

Matches

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 2: Today, I am grateful for matches. 

Fire is essential to life. Anyone who ever watched the TV show "Survivor" and other survival shows knows that the ability to create fire is not just for comfort, it helps sustain life. Keeping a fire alive is serious business when you do not have matches readily available. 

In these cold winter months, a fire in the fireplace will always be one of my favorite things. With fire we can heat food, boil water, and even start controlled burns that are beneficial to the land for nourishment and pest control. Matches are an essential tool we take for granted, until we do not have one. 

We have fancy lighters to start fires, but they are unpredictable and must be replaced often. A book of matches is perfect for emergencies. A big box of matches is a treasure in emergency situations when candles become a main light source during power outages. 

A book of matches used to be a common wedding favor. It was something to take home at the end of the celebration. The name of the couple and their wedding date was on the front. It was a great idea. 

Have you ever been in a moment where you need more matches than you have in the book or box? You have to get creative at passing the fire along, while still maintaining safety. 

Imagine the wonder of the Israelites the first time God placed a fire in the cloud by night to guide them! What a sight it must have been. How long did it take... over the course of 40 years... for them to lose the wonder of it all? 

"So the cloud of the Lord was over the tabernacle by day, and fire was in the cloud by night, in the sight of all the Israelites during all their travels." -Exodus 40:38

Have I lost the wonder found in the instant fire that can come from a single match? Probably. So today we will pause to give thanks for the simple, portable, inexpensive match. 

Today, I am grateful for matches. 

A Fresh New Year

Daily Gratitude- Year 14 - Day 1: Today, I am grateful for a fresh new year.

Everyone loves a clean slate. A new year is a chance to refresh and restart. Hopefully, this post finds you safe and warm on this first day of 2026. 

One of our sons and his treasured bride are celebrating their 1st wedding anniversary today. Our other son and his beloved wife shared one of our NYE food traditions with their friends last night. Both are reasons to reflect and smile. I am so grateful for our boys and the daughters they chose for us. How do you put that feeling into words? To know they are happy at home brings Randy and I comfort and joy that is difficult to measure or describe.  

As the calendar turns over a new year, around the world friends gather and people pause to reflect, reminisce, laugh, share, and make new memories. It is a unique holiday that much of the world shares, although some do it on a different calendar day. Let the past be the past. It is a time for new beginnings. 

Whatever the date on the calendar, we still only get to open one day at a time. It is a present to be present. I am reminded that a new life in Christ can begin at any time, too. 

"Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!" -2 Corinthians 5:17

Unwrap this day with care. Choose gratitude. Be an encourager in a world that desperately needs hope. Seek His face. Do not forget to laugh. 

Today, I am grateful for a fresh new year.