30 Days of Gratitude

Colossians 1:12 ‘Your hearts can soar with joyful gratitude when you think of how God made you worthy to receive the glorious inheritance freely given to us by living in the light (TPT).’

Day 22 * Just Grateful: Warmly or deeply appreciative of kindnesses or benefits received; indebted and beholden

He stood in the shadows. He looked rough. I passed by, keeping my distance as I migrated to the furthest edge of the sidewalk to pass by. His eyes were downcast. I wondered if he would call out for aid but he said not a word. The aroma of embarrassment was as powerful as his odor. A brown sack with a tear down one side and contents spilling out adorned the sidewalk beside him. A backpack, disregarded like he, hung off his shoulder. His clothes were ripped. I imagine his heart was too. I rounded the block and returned. I didn’t have much, Lord, but I had more than he does. I gave him what I had. He couldn’t meet my eyes but he grunted what I assumed was a thanks. I don’t normally do this, I remind myself. But the lump in my throat was making it hard to swallow. I wondered if Jesus were me right then, what would He have done. And I got my answer when I sat down with You this morning, God. See, I too was that beggar, hidden in the shadows, dressed in rags and my all brokenness like baggage hanging from my back. You rounded the corner and came back to give me all You had. You gave from a place within where it hurt You more than I can ever fathom as Your only son hung separated from You now with my baggage on His body. On that day, due to my humiliation and great need, my eyes likely couldn’t meet Yours and I am sure I just grunted my thanks. But today ‘my heart overflows with praise to you, God, and for your promises, I will always trust you. So I’m thanking you with all my heart, with gratitude for all you’ve done. I will do everything I’ve promised you, Lord. Psalm 56:11-12 (TPT).’