Thanks for nothing?

The turkey and all the trimmings is a looking a little different for many Americans this year.
It seems that Tom is noticably slimmer and the trimmings are obviously fewer, thanks to trillions of dollars lost in market equity, rising unemployment and record drops in home prices.

On top of that, our faith is definitely “on the outs” in society and rampant immorality reigns. Our once popular and prosperous gospel has been shown the door. Things haven’t looked this bleak for a lifetime for most.

So what’s there to be thankful for?

Leave it to the Bible to find a reason. Colossians 2:7 says, “Be strengthened in the faith and overflowing with thankfulness.”

I haven’t been overflowing with thankfulness since the time I found a $20 in a coat pocket. But actually, I wasn’t necessarily overflowing. Actually, I was just thrilled to have lunch money and a little extra to help toward a couple of gallons of gasoline

And now, as the newspapers confirm, that there is really little to be happy about, I wonder just how in the world this verse impacts me.

No sooner do I throw down the gauntlet, challenging the blessings of an Almighty God, does he retort with divine speed. An elderly woman flashes me a smile, a God-inspired joy that breaks through her tired body. A bird perches on my back porch, singing heavenly praises. A phone call from a grown child, confirming his place in the world even though I thought he was lost.

Overflowing with thankfulness? I’m ready. Are you?