James 1v17 & 22 ^“17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows…. ²⁷ Religion that God our Father accepts as pure and faultless is this: to look after orphans and widows in their distress.”

Thankful people are great people to be with. There is a contentment, no need to get an upper hand, no chip on the shoulder, rather a deep sense of peace overflowing into generosity. The heart of Christianity is the amazing gift given to us in Jesus Christ as he went to the cross to set us free from sin and condemnation and released us into love and grace. Eg listen to: solid ground (Lou Fellingham) True appreciation and experience of this can only overflow in thankfulness (surely?)!

As “the proof of the pudding is in the eating” so, it seems to me, the proof of the thankfulness is in the giving. This overflow of thankfulness leads to both: a compassion for those who are in distress in life (“orphans and widows” is Bible language for all who on their own or unable to provide for themselves); and also to such a detachment from what we “possess” (whether it be time, money, possessions or talents) – that we are ready to pass it on. After all, your God is able to provide all you need – isn’t he? Can God’s economy be seen more like a flowing river than a lake?

May God give us the wisdom of thankfulness!

With much blessing,

Roland