Colossians 1
Do some critical thinking with me this morning. What is the most affluent and prosperous nation on the earth? Let's even open this to the entire history of planet earth. What society of people has had the most benefits, greatest medical care, greatest access to food, clothes, sanitary living conditions, employment opportunities, political freedom, religious freedom, education, running water, recreation, and leisure time in the history of planet earth? In what historical epic did these people live? What location? If you guessed right here in the USA, right now, you are correct.
Yet, in the midst of this prosperity, what most characterizes our culture? We are people who are given to complaining and whining. It is so easy for us to focus on all the things that are wrong and end up in the junk yard of complaining and ungratefulness.
The apostle made his first note of thanksgiving to be people. He thanked God for their faith and love for all the saints. He saw the good qualities in these people. Do you think these people had problems? Idiosyncrasies? Blemishes? Conflicts? Shortcomings? Blindspots? Of course, they did. There were plenty of broken people in this church. But Paul was thankful for the roses and not the focusing on the thorns.
So, let's all play detective today and find something rose-like in every person we meet. Then tell them, "I want to thank you for…." It may take a little detective work, but it will be worth the effort. It will change them and you.
No comments:
Post a Comment