Day 296

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Be Thankful!

Scripture

October 22—Luke 16-18: Counsel from the Son of Man

Observation

Although Luke the physician frequently mentions ministries of healing, the focus of his narrative shifts to Christ's teaching and preaching in the final days of his life. The curriculum is varied in its scope and practical in its purpose, covering such subjects as wealth and its proper use; meekness, faithfulness, thankfulness and watchfulness in the life of a disciple; proper priorities as illustrated in the rich young ruler (who did not have them) and blind Bartimaeus (who did).

Application

Few parental tasks are as challenging as that of teaching your children to say "Thank you." In spite of your best intentions, you will soon discover that ingratitude and thanklessness come naturally, rather than their counterparts. It is the rare child indeed who regularly and spontaneously says "Thank you!" after enjoying an act of kindness.

Parents, take heart! If it is any consolation, the problem is at least as old as the book of Luke. In 17:11-19 Jesus heals ten lepers of their horrible disease. But upon finding themselves cleansed, only one returns to offer thanks and worship. The brief episode ends with this haunting question: "Didn't I heal ten men? Where are the nine?" (17:17). It's a question worth asking yourself today. 

When was the last time you told people in your life or your God "thank you" for a blessing that has recently come into you life? Make today an unscheduled Thanksgiving Day at your house. You don't need turkey and dressing to say thanks to those you love.

Prayer

Through our prayers to you, God, we change a group of gathering where you are in the midst into a sanctuary of worship. Prayer converts our group of gatherings into a Holy of Holies where you dwell in spirit and in purpose which separate us from all other groups. Thank you for the great gift of prayer that when two or three are gathered together in your name, you are in the midst making us a divine sanctuary of worship. We will forever give you the honor, the glory and the praise. In Jesus' name! Amen! 

God in the Midst!



© Odessa Mathis about my Father's business! 2020

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