Day 53: Deuteronomy 7, 8 and 9

When you have eaten and are satisfied, praise the Lord your God for the good land he has given you (Deuteronomy 8:10).

The Israelites would soon inhabit a land to which their only connection was DNA, albeit generations removed. Although they had never set foot in Canaan, their ancestors were buried there, and Abraham had legally purchased property there ensuring an inheritance for his children and his children’s children in perpetuity.

The houses in which they would live, and the vineyards from which they would harvest, were not of their own making. Others had labored to build the cities and plant the gardens. Moses didn’t want his followers to take these things for granted. He wanted them to give credit where credit was due, and to express their thankfulness to God.

Because of the economic downturn beginning the second decade of the 21^st century, those of us with jobs are perhaps more aware of how much we have for which to be thankful than any time in recent history. But things are bound to improve – they always do. And when we are all breathing a little easier, and not constantly wondering if ours will be the next job lost, let’s think back on this difficult time, enjoy what we have, and remember to thank God for all the good things in our lives.

In fact, let’s pause to say, Thank You, right now.

TODAY’S MEDITATION

For what or for whom do you need to give thanks today? Show your gratitude (and at the same time encourage someone else) by sharing how you’ve been blessed.