Thanksgiving

As I left work today, I thought back over the past few days and realized how many stories I had heard about broken hearts, broken families, and broken spirits. Numerous people in my life - close friends to acquaintances, Christian and non-Christian - have shared their brokenness with me this week. Husbands leaving wives, wives leaving husbands, family members in intensive care, car problems, dysfunctional families - I have heard a lot this week. And that breaks my heart! Those people have really been on my heart today. It also lets me know that I am extremely blessed. When I see all the hurt and dysfunction in the world, even in faithful Christians' lives, I can't help but feel completely and totally loved by the Lord. I have a faithful and loving husband, who would lay his life down for me if need be. With him, I know we can face each and every day, each challenge, and come out ahead. He challenges me to be a better woman, a better wife, a better employee, a better Christian each and every day. I have a supportive and loving family. Each one loves, cares for, and supports the others. I have a great job, that I look forward to going to every day. My coworkers are encouraging and uplifting to one another. I have a reliable car, a clean place to live, food in the cabinet, and a soft bed to sleep in. I really have a lot going for me, and I know beyond a shadow of a doubt it's the Lord providing for me.

This year, I am thankful simply for the Lord and His love in my life.