In light of this Thanksgiving season, people wrote various things they were thankful for on Twitter and FaceBook. Expressing thanks is a good practice. We ought to declare our gratitude more often. But thankfulness isn’t enough. Our grateful hearts should lead to joy and songs of praise.

“Always be full of joy in the Lord. I say it again—rejoice! Let everyone see that you are considerate in all you do” (Philippians 4:4-5, NLT).

We are to praise God in all situations, good or bad, hard spots or smooth. Whether we’re working or playing, all we do is an opportunity and blessing from God. If we commit everything to God, even our lives, he promises to forgive our past, guard our today, and take care of our tomorrows. No worries. No stress. Praise and obedient work is all we have for today. That’s something to be thankful for and joyful over, to sing praises about.

I could get so much done if I didn’t waste time with worry or stress. In an unforgettable manner, this little poem pointed out my un-thankful ways.

Build a little fence of trust

Around today;

Fill the space with loving work

And therein stay.

Look not through the protective rails

Upon tomorrow;

God will help you bear what comes

Of joy or sorrow.

Mary Butts ~Streams in the Desert, p. 435

May your Thanksgiving be full of gratitude, joy, and praise.

*image from photobucket.com

I sat in the crowd watching this grown man crumble in sobs. Every mark of strength and manhood couldn’t stop his emotion. Captivated by his experience, I and the other 13,000 watching people joined him with wet eyes.

The Moment
Watch this 18-minute video to see if you can resist. The man’s testimony begins around the third minute and consists of a child, now grown man, whose life was changed because someone gave up a few things to make a difference in the world of another. Be sure to watch it to the end so you won’t miss the surprise. It’s worth every second.

Catalyst 2009 Compassion Moment from Catalyst on Vimeo.

Child Sponsored by Compassion International: A Catalyst Conference Moment.

Will you give up a few things to make a huge difference in a child’s world?
Would you sponsor a child?

Christmas Idea:
Instead of Christmas presents to people who already have too much, last year we gave gifts to charities. Read the funny story at The Best Christmas Heifer! One was a Compassion International sponsorship, a gift that gives back all year by giving relationship, letters, and prayers.

May we make a difference in the lives of others like this man.