Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows. James 1:17
“God deserves love from man in recognition of His gifts, both material and spiritual: and these gifts should be cherished without neglect of the Giver. Those who admit the truth of what I have said know, I am sure, why we are bound to love God. But if unbelievers will not grant it, their ingratitude is at once confounded by His innumerable benefits, lavished on our race, and plainly discerned by the senses. Who is it that gives food to all flesh, light to every eye, air to all that breathe? It would be foolish to begin a catalogue, since I have just called them innumerable: but I name, as notable instances, food, sunlight and air; not because they are God’s best gifts, but because they are essential to bodily life.”
Bernard of Clairvaux (1090-1153) in his classic work, On Loving God, 4.
I’ve returned safely home. Thanks for your prayers as I recover from the rigors of travel and work from home this week. I am reflecting on God’s blessings with thanksgiving so I’ve also returned to ‘gratitude’ which is my word for the year.
Today we actually learn about ingratitude. Let’s ponder it a moment with Bernard. God gives innumerable gifts, including the essentials that everyone needs to live. All He asks for in reply is our hearts, our love, our allegiance.
Sadly, many of us neglect Him. We do this. We act as if we supply the essentials for our lives and live as though we forget that the innumerable benefits around us came directly from His hand.
So, what’s the point today? We can’t live generously if we think we supply our needs. Instead, let’s pause, thank God for a few of His innumerable benefits and consider His matchless love and care for our each and every need.
If we take a posture of gratitude for everything that comes to mind, it changes us. In response let us resolve to enjoy and share whatever material and spiritual gifts God has lavished on us. And do this regardless of what anyone else around us is doing.