For March 28th:

 “Now as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and after blessing it broke it and gave it to the disciples, and said, ‘Take, eat; this is my body.’ And He took a cup, and when he had given thanks He gave it to them, saying, ‘Drink of it, all of you, for this is my blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for the foregiveness of sins….’” Matthew 26:26-28

Today is Maundy Thursday, the day the church remembers the Last Supper of Christ with His chosen twelve. The night Jesus gave thanks, broke the bread and shared the cup, which symbolized what He would do for us at His crucifixion on Good Friday. He gave thanks.

Looking toward the cross that is Good Friday, it is painful for us to think of what He went through for us. He took our place and embraced our shame. These lists we’ve been making seem menial in comparison to what He endured. But, by having our eyes opened to all the ways He has blessed us over the past 40 days, we hope you have a clearer vision of His resurrection. We know He lives because we have witnessed His presence everywhere as we have added to our lists.

On Easter Sunday as you rejoice in our risen Lord, we hope you might find time to look back over the list you’ve been making of things you love. Your “One Thousand Gifts” from God, as they are described in the book of the same title by Ann Voskamp, 2009. (And/or reading the slips of paper if your family has been counting blessings with the Easter Basket project).

It is our prayer that as you read your list, item by item, that you will be filled with joy. God was there with each stroke of your pen. Every time you noticed something and took the time to write it down, you made God smile. Each time your eyes saw it, it was a snapshot from God. Each time your ears heard it, it was God whispering to you. And with each entry you made on your lists you said thank you. You showed gratitude because you were looking beyond yourself, and instead looking for Him, and acknowledging His goodness. He is everywhere. He is in all things. He is alive!

 Be sure to stop by the information desk at church this Sunday to pick up the printed April edition of the “Living a Life of Gratitude” Daily Devotional.