Yesterday, my wife cooked up a feast that satisfied her 5 guys, while the boys and I made sure the rest of the house was presentable. She stressed about it, lamented that this or that wasn’t what she hoped it would be, but she couldn’t fool us: it was nothing short of amazing. It wasn’t the Thanksgiving meal we planned, in meeting with the out-of-state family, but, for us, it was great. You see, plans fell through; dad had to go to the ER the day before, as we were not sure about what he had, so the plans for all of us to gather at mom and dads fell through. And yet, around that table, in spite of disappointments, set backs, and realizing we should have put the pumpkin pie in a lot sooner, we were all able to express what we were thankful for. Some of the boys and I did the dishes (others helped cook, so they were exempt), while we let my wife get a much needed rest. Capping the night off with pie (pumpkin and caramel apple crisp), and the movie White Christmas, we all went to bed satisfied.
Life is much more than our circumstances. It’s much more than food, or appointments, or gatherings or entertainments. At least, it should be. Life, one that is full and truly life, should be about living in gratitude every moment of every day realizing that we were creatures who rebelled and moved away from our original design, destined for destruction for violation of that rebellion. And yet, we have been redeemed by our Creator for an even greater purpose, and shall, some day, be made like Him. So I, and you, should live a life worthy of the sacrifice that made that redemption possible, doing our level best to strain toward Christ, the One who set us free, and striving to make every breath, thought and action to be used gratitude.
Philippians 4
Therefore, my brothers, whom I love and long for, my joy and crown, stand firm thus in the Lord, my beloved.
I entreat Euodia and I entreat Syntyche to agree in the Lord. Yes, I ask you also, true companion, help these women, who have labored side by side with me in the gospel together with Clement and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life.
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice. Let your reasonableness be known to everyone. The Lord is at hand; do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. What you have learned and received and heard and seen in me—practice these things, and the God of peace will be with you.
I rejoiced in the Lord greatly that now at length you have revived your concern for me. You were indeed concerned for me, but you had no opportunity. Not that I am speaking of being in need, for I have learned in whatever situation I am to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.
Yet it was kind of you to share my trouble. And you Philippians yourselves know that in the beginning of the gospel, when I left Macedonia, no church entered into partnership with me in giving and receiving, except you only. Even in Thessalonica you sent me help for my needs once and again. Not that I seek the gift, but I seek the fruit that increases to your credit. I have received full payment, and more. I am well supplied, having received from Epaphroditus the gifts you sent, a fragrant offering, a sacrifice acceptable and pleasing to God. And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus. To our God and Father be glory forever and ever. Amen.
Greet every saint in Christ Jesus. The brothers who are with me greet you. All the saints greet you, especially those of Caesar’s household.
The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with your spirit.
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