G. K. Chesterton suggested that “thanks are the highest form of thought, and that gratitude is happiness doubled by wonder.” I truly wish to live on the grateful side of the street; however, I meander so selfishly to the other side. How easy it is to count losses more often than we care to admit…even to ourselves. If thanksgiving is the highest form of thought, then ~ oops! ~ my altitude is slipping.

God’s gifts surround me, yet I’m lost in the slumber of forgetfulness. The edge of my senses get dulled by what I feel I ‘should’ be seeing, feeling, tasting, smelling, and hearing. Ever so egocentric ~ longing to have my way ~ even if I’m trying to hide my thoughts.

Thanksgiving grows out of a heart of humility. A heart fully submitting to the Lord’s choices for the day ceases to balk at what would otherwise seem to suit our pleasure. When I’m honest, I realize I’m still sitting by the roadside, counting my losses, inwardly [and sometimes outwardly] grumbling and complaining, measuring what pleases me as opposed to what pleases my Lord or others.

The author of Hebrews wrote: “Through Jesus, therefore, let us continually offer to God a sacrifice of praise ~ the fruit of lips that openly profess His name.” [13:15] “Through Jesus…and professing His name” — as opposed to being through me and professing my name.

Gracie, our youngest granddaughter j.o.y.f.u.l.l.y served us this morning: setting the breakfast table, making up every bed that was emptied, and helping me to fold laundry. She thanked me for allowing her to do these things–things that I would deem woefully mundane. Her face glowed as she served our family. So divinely placed, the Kingdom of God is revealed to me in countless ways through my grandchildren. Jesus said, “…Of such is the Kingdom.” These children have kept their “happiness doubled by wonder.” I must choose the grateful side of the street!