Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

James 1:17

We are in the midst of the holiday season, thinking about what gifts we can buy or make for our friends and loved ones. Physical gifts of toys, food, electronics. But this scripture reminds me of the more important gifts we receive from God throughout the year. Love. Mercy. Grace. Peace. As well as physical & relational blessings. These gifts ground me, they give me life, they calm my soul.

This year especially, I have worked to be aware every good thing that comes into my life, and express gratitude to God for it. He is behind every big or little gift that comes into my life.

It’s way too easy for me to focus on the “shifting shadows”, the news and updates that flurries around me. I want to take time today to stop, and instead focus on our “Father of the heavenly lights” that gives us good, and perfect gifts. And express my gratitude, that will point my friends and family around me to God, and to the good gifts he provides.

Whats a gift that you can express gratitude for today?

— Christie Timm