This week, I have multiple reasons to be thankful
It happens every year. We call it the “Triple Crown.”
This is the week of my birthday, our anniversary, and Mother’s Day.
Some years, all three of them fall on the same day!
I want to take this opportunity to express my gratitude for all this week represents:
1. I’m thankful for having another birthday!
Many of you know I have been in a significant health battle for almost a year. In the last three months, my blood levels have gradually improved. I took my first airline flight since last June, have gained 30 pounds, and am feeling well.
Strength, appetite, sleep, and all bodily functions are things we take for granted. I don’t anymore.
Being ALIVE is indeed something we should thank God for every day and every birthday!
It feels GREAT to be reaching 71…
2. I’m thankful for my marriage.
On Wednesday will be my 48th anniversary.
I married Melanie on May 8th, 1976, and we left for Africa as missionaries two weeks later.
She has been by my side for many harrowing moments and amazing adventures.
Six children, 20 grandchildren, and 54 years of ministry have given us immense pleasure.
I wake up daily thankful for her and the joy of sharing my private and public life with her.
3. I’m thankful for my parents.
This Mother’s Day, I will remember the beauty and Christlikeness of my mother, Ruth Stockstill.
She went to heaven in 2008. Daddy followed her in 2016. They were married for 68 years and laid the foundation of our ministry and family for generations.
This week, I honor them. I am so grateful for who they were and what they did to shape me and our entire family.
“Mimi,” as we affectionately call her, was such a servant and giver. In our world of self-seeking and self-pleasing, she was a rare jewel in the crown of Christ.
4. I’m thankful for the little things.
We always bow our heads and give thanks for our food at the table. It struck me recently that sometimes we turn around and complain at the same table about the food we eat!
The Israelites did that with the heavenly manna. They were eating the bread of angels and yet were dissatisfied.
I have started giving thanks and savoring whatever I am privileged to eat at a meal.
Our car, our home, our clothing, and our technology are all things we can get critical about.
Thank God for the little things.
Ask yourself some questions today:
“Am I really grateful for everything, or is it just words?”
“Have I become so familiar with my marriage and family that it is no longer special to me?
“Do I find a way to criticize any earthly possessions God has so generously provided for me?
“Am I grateful for health, life, appetite, sleep?”
During my “Triple Crown” week, take time to deepen your appreciation for life.
It’s ALL GOOD.