Daily Devotional: Keep me thankful
"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." — 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 NRSVUE
At times, I’ve noticed other’s reaction to simple words of gratitude or civility can teach us a great deal. I strive to say thank you when someone does something kind for me. Whether it’s the man at the carpet store who stretches a rug so I can get more life out of it, a committee chairperson who drops by to bring me up to speed, or the young lady carefully bagging groceries.
Some folks shrug and say, “Just doing my job,” when I express my thanks. Some give an embarrassed half-smile as they hurry through their day. But others give that second glance that lets you know how much they appreciated having their efforts noticed.
It doesn’t cost me anything to speak the kind words — no extra time spent, no detour in my travels. But I do get something back from saying, Thank you: it has the potential to carry me from a place of self-centeredness and move me to a place of gratitude. And that’s always a much better place to be.
Prayer: Lord, help me to notice even the smallest acts of kindness today, and keep me thankful.
Rev. Dr. Michael Sanders has books of devotions available locally at Ken’s Village Market in Indian River.
This article originally appeared on The Petoskey News-Review: Daily Devotional: Keep me thankful
