1 Thessalonians 1:2, 3  “We always thank God for all of you and pray for you constantly. As we pray to our God and Father about you, we think of your faithful work, your loving deeds, and the enduring hope you have because of our Lord Jesus Christ.” (NLT)

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There are some people we cannot think of without a smile and gratitude. When a little munchkin awakened me at 4:45 yesterday, I couldn’t help but grin when I found her singing songs and beaming with delight as I entered the room to encourage her back to restful repose.

Thoughts about a friend who lives fifteen hours or so away by air travel remind me of how good our God and Father is in strategically placing wise and capable leaders where he can use them to change the world for so many among the least, the last, and the lost. 

A dear lady who was forced off the mission field years ago came home and works from 5 AM to 9 PM daily, leading a ministry so broad and deep in her community that they are the transportation hub for their city. They clothe the many who lack what is necessary for daily life. They feed hundreds of hungry people every day. They process millions of dollars of provisions of all kinds every week. Everything donated or delivered is turned around as quickly as possible in service to others.

Family members, coworkers, and friends abound who make me feel like the Apostle Paul and his ministry partners felt about their friends in Thessaloniki. 

Who do you thank God for today? The Thanksgiving holiday is behind us, but gratitude is one of the characteristics shaping the prayers of those who ever-more deeply know and experience God. 

Who are those who faithfully work for the good of others? Whose loving deeds go unsung, but not unnoticed? Who demonstrates an enduring hope in Jesus who could otherwise be expected to give up on God? 

Take time to count some blessings today. Acknowledge God’s rich blessings in the people he places in our lives. Keep on giving thanks. Life is lighter and more loving when we live like this.

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I will enjoy calling to mind those who enrich my life.

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Our Father, help me develop a deeper appreciation and expression of gratitude for the wonderful people you surround me with daily. How good you are to me and to this world for strategically placing these people where you need them most. Amen.