The first I want to mention is a ticket from Monroe Police Department for not wearing my seat belt. What a joy it was to be stopped along one of Monroe’s busiest streets with the flashing lights behind me. I wonder how many of our church members drove by? Ah well. Getting lax on simple things that can make a big difference is a recipe for regret. The officer was kind, and fair, and right. I expect he has witnessed the results of accidents where seat belts were not in use. I am appreciative of the reminder. Some gifts are costly!
The second is a carved olive wood statue of Jesus carrying the cross. It originates in Jerusalem. I think
most of us are on the same page about worshiping icons … I wouldn’t know how. But a physical representation can gravitate our attention and focus our thoughts. I’ll also be reminded of the dear friend who placed this in my hands today. I’m appreciative of another costly gift – a price I couldn’t pay.
The third is a copy of Eric Metaxas’ Bonhoeffer: Pastor, Martyr, Prophet, Spy. I talked about Bonhoeffer in a lesson and one of our deacons, a history buff, bought this book. Today he gifted it to me. I’m looking forward to diving in! The book cost a little, but Bonhoeffer’s writings are quite a gift to Christendom. Still, the price he paid for his commitment to Christ was the ultimate in costliness: his life.
I’m thankful for the gifts I received today … these three that I am acknowledging, as well as many more blessings that filled the hours. I am made aware that I am often ungrateful for all that God has done on my behalf. While I usually thank Him in generic, I’m moved to thank Him in specific today. What has been gifted to you lately that was costly to someone else?
Thanks for reading,
John
I’m sure you would have known by Sunday who viewed your interaction with law enforcement.
When I started my first ministry job we went down to the panhandle of Texas for a singing around Thanksgiving. We went threw several small towns I had never been in and needless to say we found a speed trap. I remember all of the members as they passed and waved. Made for a good story on Sunday.
Recently I was given tickets to the local AA baseball game. I went with the family and we had a good time.
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When I was in the Philippines a few weeks ago…at the church compound I stayed at the last night, there was a sweet girl who was helping us and I commented on how beautiful her bracelet was. She said something about how her mom had given it to her and wanted me to have it! I tried to explain I was just complementing, but she insisted I take it…this is a girl I met 5 minutes before!!
Such a sweet gift! I will always look at it and when I wear it, think of and pray for this precious spirit!!
I am reminded, and probably not enough, of the amazing gift God and His Son sacrificed for me…a gift I cannot repay…but am extremely grateful for!!
Thanks for sharing :)
You are a better person than me to be thankful for the gift of a ticket.
I have been blessed with an illness this week. It has forced me to slow down and stay at home. I was also late for work this morning, which meant I got to see my son and a funny video of Ella on his new smart phone (that was my gift to him)….
Thanks for making me think to be thankful…