♪A Note of Thanks ♪
I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. Philippians 4:11-12
The morning slowly and sweetly awakens; so still and early, even the birds haven’t begun to sing. The day dawns in silence as most of the community is still sleeping. It’s early…much earlier than normal for me. The wind is soft, with an early spring chill, and the sky is filled with distant lights twinkling, the lonely sound of a train over Ruffner Mountain coming through Norris Yards in Irondale and a dog barking, yonder in the distance. I give God thanks and praise for the day, for the contentment moving easily through me as I begin to pray. I believe the reason Paul learned to live in contentment regardless of his circumstances was because he prayed, meditated and communed with God in deep, contemplative ways, everyday and continuously throughout the day.
Paul knew that the trials and experiences of this life are only the beginnings of our journeys, He had an up-close-and-personal encounter with Jesus, and after that, all that mattered was sharing the spiritual freedom and truth that transformed him and changed his life, and Christian history, forever. I consider my own circumstances: Life hasn’t exactly been a piece of cake for me; however, unlike Paul, I’ve never been thrown in prison because I follow Jesus. I’ve never been beaten or tortured because of my religious faith. I’ve never been homeless, and I can’t even say, as Paul does, that I rejoice always and in everything. Today, however, I’m determined to rejoice and be content with what I have – which is more than I deserve- and I’m equally determined to share what I have with others.
The dictionary says that contentment means to be satisfied. I pray that everyone reading this devotional will examine closely all of their gifts and learn to be content with what they have. The other Sunday, for offertory, I chose a hymn tune that speaks to my heart about God caring for us. I can sing this with joy and thanksgiving because I’m certain that God always will take care of me…and of you.
God Will Take Care of You
Be not dismayed, what-e’er betide, God will take care of you;
Beneath His wings of love abide, God will take care of you.
Through days of toil when heart doth fail, God will take care of you;
When dangers fierce your path assail, God will take care of you.
No matter what may be the test, God will take care of you;
Lean, weary one, upon His breast, God will take care of you.
Chorus
God will take care of you, through every day, o’er all the way;
He will take care of you, God will take care of you.
- Civilla Durfee Martin
Thank you, God, for the gift of this most amazing day. Guide us and help us. May Your Peace be our highest priority today. Amen.
With a grateful heart for serving alongside you, I remain…
Your friend,
Mark David Jackson
