Thursday Thanksday #2

more gratitude

Hi. Last week I made a “Thanksday” post and I kind of think I ought to do it again. As I wrote then, I’d like to interact more with you, so I’ve transitioned my website to a different model. I’ll share my thoughts, but I won’t complain or attack. I want to encourage you with a positive experience when I write a post. So, if you’d like to know when there’s something new, just subscribe and you’ll get it in your inbox. But now it’s time for some gratitude.

It's Thurs Thanksday!

Becoming more grateful is something we can all get behind. We know it’s good for us and those around us. It’s healthy for mind, body, and emotions. And it’s the kind of thing you actually want to spread to—or catch from—others.

So, I want your comments, too. Just a simple sentence or so to say one thing you’re thankful for.

As of next week, three of my four kids will be adults, as in, 18-years-old or older. So, I want to thank God for the very many people who have served them, and their parents, in children’s and youth ministries at church, Christian school, and camps.

I thank my God in all my remembrance of you, always in every prayer of mine for you all making my prayer with joy, because of your partnership in the gospel from the first day until now. (Philippians 1:3–5, ESV)

For more than 22 years (my oldest son’s age), our family has been surrounded by selfless Christian servants who have taken care of, taken an interest in, and taught our kids. They gave their time, and often their money, to be involved in kids’ and teens’ ministries. These folks conversed with them, prayed for them, and loved them. When your kids happen to be pastor’s kids, church really is a second home. And our church people made our kids feel comfortable and safe there.

As I think back over three churches, a Christian school, and several camps, my mind goes to people who still check in on my kids long after they’ve aged out of those programs. And I also think of many wonderful people who are no longer with us, some of whom my kids won’t even remember. But I do. They made a difference and are still making a difference. When your children hear God’s Word spoken by people other than their parents, or when they see just plain ol’ good character modeled by other grown-ups, it sinks in. As Paul said in Philippians, “I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.”

OK friends, what have you got—big or small—to be thankful for today?