Growing in Child-Likeness: Gratitude

Where has my thankfulness for the simple gifts of life gone? Where is my childlike gratitude? As I have "matured," a mindset of entitlement has emerged that diminishes my sense of appreciation. Am I capable of a childlike, thankful heart anymore?

When we were in South Africa, my wife visited an orphanage. Her descriptions and pictures revealed the joy of childlike gratitude evident in these children. Happiness was attached to a hug, a kind word, and the basics of life. In the midst of poverty and social chaos, gratitude was generously expressed by orphaned children.

But should that surprise us? Jesus taught us that unless we become as little children we cannot enter the Kingdom of God. Jesus modeled childlike thankfulness after raising Lazarus from the dead when He said to His Father:

Father, I thank you that You have heard Me. John 11:41 NIV

Possessing a grateful heart and saying "thank you" is important to God!

Tomorrow we celebrate Thanksgiving Day in the United States. Will you join me in childlike expressions of gratitude for the many blessings God has given us?

Sharing the journey with you,