“Today, I am thankful for…”

Hey Friends and Family of TCC,

I’ve discovered that gratitude and thankfulness are cultivated in our lives through intention and practice. Of all the attitudes we get to choose, gratitude seems to be the most beneficial. I read a study that said, “Gratitude research shows that thankfulness has the strongest link to mental health and physical well-being of any of the thirty most commonly studied personality traits.” Gratitude leads to healthy, less stressed, more social, and happier people.

On Sunday, after the offering time, I challenged us to be “gratitude givers” - to be people who change the atmosphere through our words of thanks. The idea came to me when I read a Facebook post from a woman who was shopping last week and said, “No excuse me or thank you out there today. Only blank stares.” Folks, as we enter into the holiday season which begins with a day set aside to express thanks for what we have and ends with songs of joy over the greatest gift we could ever receive, let’s make sure our attitude and actions match the reason we celebrate.

Gratitude is spawned as we become fully aware of God’s presence and goodness. How much do you focus on the fact that God is always there and working out His plan for your best?

Gratitude grows as I humbly realize that I really don’t deserve anything. I am not entitled. Instead, I am humbled to have what I have. When I feel I am entitled, my speech is littered with grumbling, but when I am content with what I have, my speech is flowered with gratitude.

Gratitude is an expression of blessing as a person reflects on God’s presence and provision. I know I am blessed beyond belief. My wife, kids, family, friends, church, purpose, mission, calling, health, home and faith are all gifts given to me by our generous and good God. I am one blessed and thankful man. So, here’s a discipline to practice this holiday season. When someone asks you how you are doing, answer this way: “Today, I am thankful for…” Let’s be people who change the atmosphere wherever we go by expressing our gratitude for all God has done.

This week we’re going to look at another of Jesus’ outrageous statements. It’s all about how to handle our stuff. It will challenge all of us.

Looking forward to hearing from Jesus,