Lenten Reflection for March 26th

In reflecting on the Gift of Wonder and Awe and how it manifests in my life, I can see how it has much to do with how much gratitude I have in my heart for the blessings I have. How often do I ‘count my blessings’? A roof over my head, clothes to keep me warm, food on my table, a loving husband and family, good friends, a place to worship openly, the country I live in… and these seem like so few listed from what I could add if I took more time.

It may be easy to get caught up in the ‘mundane’ tasks of life, or to take for granted what we have every day. They become commonplace and we forget to be thankful. The Psalmist writes this praise and reminds us, “O how abundant is your goodness that you have laid up for those who fear you, and accomplished for those who take refuge in you, in the sight of everyone!” (Psalm 31:19)

God provides for our needs and asks for nothing in return. He is completely understanding of how feeble our efforts are and how we, in our fallen world and attempts at righteousness, could never repay Him in turn. Yet, He chooses to continue to fill our cup to overflowing. We enjoy the blessing of God’s goodness, and He takes delight in the wonder in our eyes.

The most we can give back to God for all the countless blessings He continues to give to us is showing reverence for Him through our thanks, gratitude and love. Let’s pray to have an increase of gratitude in our heart!

For our younger brothers and sisters in Christ:

Sometimes I find that I need to take some time to think about things in my life that I might be taking for granted. That means to never really think about something because we believe it will always be available or stay exactly the same. 

I might take it for granted that I have a bed to sleep in every night. That I have food in my cupboard and refrigerator that I can eat. I have a house to live in and a yard to spend time outside in. I went to school and am able to read and have many books. Perhaps you have some things like that in your life too that you take for granted.

Part of Wonder and Awe is to be able to be thankful to God for the blessings He gives us every day, even those things we take for granted. A home, clothes, food, family, friends. 

In the Bible in the book of Psalms we read, “How great is your goodness!

    You have stored it up for those who fear you.

You do good things for those who trust you.

    You do this for all to see.”

(Psalm 21:19 ICB)

God gives us so much we can’t even comprehend, and He doesn’t expect us to give Him anything in return. We know we can fully trust in Him and what we can give back to Him is our thanks, gratitude and love. 

God bless you!