This week I have been reminded of that old chorus that I learned as a kid, “Count your blessings, name them one by one.” For all the doom and gloom in our news feeds, for all the strangeness of learning to live with COVID (I am writing from isolation – again!), and for all that may lack (according to social media or advertising campaigns) we have so much to be thankful for. I am thankful for small blessings; those little spaces where I suspect I see the hand of God in my life. I am thankful for vaccines (and boosters) that have kept me and my family relatively healthy (even in the midst of sickness). I am thankful for the people I work with; whose gifts I appreciate, whose strengths I need, and whose friendship I enjoy. And so much more.

 

There is great power in naming our blessings one by one. It opens our eyes to see what can be celebrated as a moment of joy in our lives. For those who see with faith, this reminds us of God’s care, providence, and goodness.

 

What are you thankful for today? Count ‘em up and give thanks to our Father in heaven.

 

Marc Rader | Senior Pastor