by Lynell Caudillo
When our boys were young we had a set bedtime routine.
After baths and teeth brushing, we read stories (each boy got to chose one), then it was time for bed. Even at the bedside there was a routine—hugs and kisses after a song and a prayer. (Of course one of them, and I’ll let you guess which one, came up with this idea to delay the inevitable:“Tell me a story without a storybook!”) This is the prayer we taught them:
“Receive our thanks for night and day,
For food and shelter, rest and play.
Be here our guest, Lord, and with us stay.
With thankful hearts, we humbly pray…”
Just before bowing our heads and saying this prayer together, we would ask each one: “What was the best part of your day? What are you thankful for?” Then we would incorporate their prayers and also any concerns, at the end of the prayer.
I dare you—make a list! |
Gratitude is a wonderful attitude to cultivate. Yes, there are all kinds of things we could complain about…it doesn’t change anything. Yes, there are many things we could ask God for…but often our requests are selfish. Gratitude helps put all of these things in perspective. Check out First Thessalonians 5:18 “Give thanks in all circumstances for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Of course it is good to “give credit where credit is due”, and since God is the giver of all gifts—we should thank Him.
Of late, when we have heard inspirational stories from Adam Caudillo about his mission trip to the jungle of Ecuador, from Bill and Sue Jones about what God is doing in Guatemala, and from Jane Holslag about what God is doing in Lithuania—we are reminded of the countless things we take for granted! Hot and cold running water, electricity, medical care and good nutrition for starters—we know that we are indeed, “rich” in comparison to 2/3 of the people of the world.
In November we will continue our series on “Stewardship of All of Life”, as well as join with Southminster Pres. for a wonderful Thanksgiving Day worship service. As you reflect on both the blessings you enjoy, and how you might support the mission of Marcus Whitman Church (financially as well as through your gifts of service, time and talent), I trust that you will remember and give God thanks …each and every day!
I dare you—make a list! Will you run out of ink or paper first?? I wonder…
Let’s give God thanks together—see you in Worship!
Pastor Lynell