(As you pray-read through these Scriptures and my prayer today, contextualize your own story and moment. For what do you need to be more grateful today?)
Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17
What do you have that you did not receive? And if you did receive it, why do you boast as though you did not? 1 Cor. 4:7
Heavenly Father, as I wake up today in one of the most beauty-soaked, fish-laden, awe-fueling spots in the world—Alaska, I want to take time to say a big “Thank You!” I want to express heart-felt gratitude for a wide array of things I’d never have if you weren’t so generous.
Father, thank you for an over-the-top glorious salvation in Jesus. By your sovereign goodness, you revealed the depth of my need, and then you lavished the riches of the gospel on me. I’m hidden in Christ, standing in grace, and rooted in your love. I’m an object of your constant affection and a subject in your unshakeable kingdom, a focus Jesus’ prayers, and a son in whom your Spirit dwells. These things, alone, mock any whining and pining, carping and harping I can muster. But there’s so much more.
I have a roof over my head and heaven as my home; a family to love and your Story to live; a Bible filled with trustworthy promises, and buddies with whom to catch big salmon; a body that still mostly works, and a resurrection body that will never wear out; taste buds to enjoy cobbler and eyes to behold creation’s wonder.
Father, also I praise you today for freeing me to live with more mystery and laugh with greater spontaneity; for helping me be less busy and more present; for breaking my chains and wilting my shame; for friends who invite me to play, and friends who love to pray. I bless you for my vocation and this vacation. Father, I love you. Thank you for being so astonishingly generous with me. So very Amen, I pray, in Jesus’ wonderful and merciful name.