[352 words]
I went home for lunch the other day and had a sandwich and leftover potato soup, and let me tell you that soup tasted really good! Now, normally I do not mind leftovers, but it is rare for me to rave about them. I’m sure you’re wondering what it was that made it taste five-star restaurant good. Had Julie done something different in the way she prepared it? Nope, it was just like she always makes it (which is very good, by the way). Was it because potato soup is my all-time favorite dish? Hardly. Then what was it that made it taste so fantastic? That soup tasted especially good that day because I was having a good day and that soup warmed my tummy and soul. And that attitude led to gratitude.
When the church first began, Acts 2:42 says of the disciples that daily they broke bread from house to house and “Ate their food with gladness.” They were so thankful to be a part of God’s family that something as common as a meal together brought great joy.
For too many Christians, life has become mundane. And sad to say, some try to “spice up” their life with actions that are sinful (drinking, drugs, selfish lifestyles, excess spending, extra-marital affairs, etc.). But the real answer is to be truly grateful for what you have. With a thankful attitude, even the ordinary becomes extraordinary (including potato soup!).
With what could you have a better attitude? Work? school? A relationship? Your parents/children? This congregation? Try a good and positive attitude concerning whatever it is and see what happens. My guess is that you will be grateful for what you have.
“In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).
“Giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20).
“And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful” (Colossians 3:15).
Edd Sterchi
via Central church of Christ
Paducah, KY