"I will give thanks to you, Lord, with all my heart; I will tell of all your wonderful deeds." Psalms 9:1
Looking out my office window this morning, I spotted a very healthy-looking gray squirrel running across the tree branches. Having just read this verse, I started thinking about what that squirrel might give God thanks for; nuts still on the ground from last winter, a safe nest high in the tree, that it's not squirrel season for hunters? Does he give thanks at all?
My mind then turns to all the things for which we have to be thankful. We certainly have more than the basic needs things given to our squirrel friend by God. But often do we pause and give thanks for these same little things like food, shelter, and safety? While we are unsure if a squirrel can give thanks, we know we can, yet we often do not. In addition to thanking God, we need to tell others of God's blessings. Not bragging about our excess, but how God has provided and will continue to provide. Who is waiting to hear of God's marvelous deeds? Who needs to hear the message of hope found in Jesus Christ today?
God, we give you thanks with our whole heart for your bounteous gifts. We confess we often take this for granted. Father, forgive us and heal us of our unthankfulness and selfishness. Please help us to testify to others all you have done for us. Help us to share what Jesus has done and continues to do in our lives. We ask this in Jesus' name. Amen.
PS. Thank you, God, for sending me a chunky gray squirrel to serve as a witness.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
