It’s the beginning of the week.
I have a choice.
I can get caught up in the busyness and chaos that will certainly be present;
or I can start now to be prepared.
I don’t have to react when things begin to unravel.
If I truly trust in God and his plan, then I should be able wait if unraveling begins.
The wind is blowing this morning.
It’s out of the south, which makes it a bit chilly.
So grateful for this new barn.
We are reminded of the multitude of tasks left still to tighten things up for winter.
My farmer and I chat on the phone for a few moments.
We were going to chat last night.
But another farmer needed a hand.
So after a full days work my farmer and farm boy head to help another.
Gratitude–the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation for and to return kindness.
“To return Kindness”
We have been the recipients of so much kindness.
There is no way we could begin to return that gift to us.
So we do what we can for others.
My farmer and I had planned to spend a little time together.
Moments like that are far and few between.
We planned to try to head off the chaos of this week by being prepared.
That didn’t happen.
Instead he returned kindness yesterday.
I think the time was well spent.
We will continue to look for ways to show appreciation and return kindness.
We will continue to record our Gratitude.
Day #5 of Thankfulness
I am Thankful for:
time to ponder so many interesting things
my farmer who gives selflessly
coffee, steaming mugs of coffee
a warm fire to snuggle by
tea in the afternoon with one of my father in laws cousins
this old, drafty, messy, run down farmhouse
kids who still kiss me goodnight
a farm boy who has such a tender heart
a God who relentlessly pursues us
words, sermons, books, etc
a God who teaches us about his character everyday
contentment even in the tough
house sounds, you know? the familiar
farm girls who sing Christmas Carols at the top of their lungs
an exchange student who teaches me much about life
Stepping into an attitude of gratitude can be hard.
So much of our culture points to self and self gratification, me contentedness.
It is freeing and glorious to serve.
To serve our families, to serve others.
Look for ways to return kindness.
Sit at the feet of Jesus and ask Him to show you a better way.
Chris Tomlin
Kindness
