In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, I plan to spend the whole day today in thanksgiving. I invite you to do the same. Here are some things I’m thankful for:
- God’s in control, and I’m His child. No matter what happens around me—or to me—I can rest in His arms.
- Somebody shared the gospel with me a long time ago. As my 12-year-classmate, little did my witnessing friend know his truth would bring me comfort and peace 45 years later in the midst of a global crisis.
- God welcomes me coming to Him with my needs, and He hears me. It’s amazing, actually. The Creator invites me to crawl into His lap and give Him my burdens.
- I have no fear of death. None. Not one. I know my Redeemer lives.
- My wife loves me, I love her, and we’re friends. That’s really helpful when you’re together almost 24 hours a day.
- Friends and family members are checking on us. At first, I was offended when others reminded me that I’m older and could be vulnerable to the coronavirus. I know, though, that their concern is nothing but love. I’m blessed.
- Pam and I are healthy. We know we could face sickness any day, but we’re fine today. Each day of wellness is a gift from God.
- Doing church isn’t dependent on a building. I’ve known that fact (even preached it), but we’ve lived it the last few weeks. It’s not ideal to meet with my small group and congregation via Zoom, but it works.
- I get to do work that affects eternity. I really do. I get to preach the answer to all of our problems. I get to train others to take the gospel to the world. I don’t understand why God me to this work, but I’m thankful He did.
- We live in a day of technology. The computer keeps me too busy, and the Internet is sometimes distracting—but both have made it possible to see and talk to people while we’re in a “stay at home” mode. Many of us are now working from home via the same means. Our Christian brothers and sisters of years past would have had no such opportunities.
Would you join me today in expressing thanksgiving all day long?
In the section titled DAILY DEVOTION in which you mention Chuck doing his devotions, the text has 2017.
Thanks for letting us know.
I echo each of your reasons and one more: Darrell Stone, who became a good friend to me when I was interim pastor at his church in Cincinnati. Only after I retired did I know of your friendship. Blessings on you!