Mar 23

Written by: tim
3/23/2010 2:08 PM 

I can't really control it because as far as I can tell it is nearly, if not technically, an involuntary response.  I walk out of a building into the sunlight, get a tickle in my nose and then almost instantly have to sneeze.  While this goofy behavior can be funny/awkward/annoying I have decided that what I really need to do is take on an attitude of thankfulness when this happens.  You see, the little tickle in my nose is most often accompanied by the rays of sunshine warming the rest of my face and body and who can compain about that?

Life is like that; filled with blessings that we sometimes miss all because of little annoyances.  Maybe, just maybe, I need to stop and praise God for those little annoyances...

Thank you, Lord, for my occasionally interrupted sleep courtesy of my children and their need to snuggle or pray because of a bad dream.  I know I only have them for a time and soon enough they will be gone and raising their own families.  While I'm at it I'll give thanks for the times when they've asked the exact same question and received the exact same answer FIVE TIMES IN A ROW!  They are precious even when they drive me nuts.

Thank you, Lord, for each bill that comes across my desk.  They remind me that You and You alone are the provider for my home.  You supply all my needs and occasionally you smile and bless me with some of my wants as well.  Sometimes I complain about the ever rising cost of this and that but You are faithful beyond my expectations.  Whether thick or thin my bank account reminds me that You are in control and that You are good!

Thank you, Lord, for those moments when my plans don't go as planned.  Our house attracts lookers but what we want are buyers.  I tell someone "this" but it somehow comes across as "that".  You have plans much bigger and better than my own and I'm learning what it means to trust them.  I didn't plan to live hours or even days away from our family but before my heart turns to jealousy or complaint You remind me of Your infiinte grace, love and compassion.  You have opened us up to the practical realization of Your family, and Your family is big and beautiful.  Thank you also for cheap long distance, flights and freedom to travel!

There's probably more but my heart will rejoice even about the tickle in my nose.