Music Monday: “Gratitude” ” by Brandon Lake
by: Debbie Waltz
Last week was the release date for our special needs anthology, Room At The Table: Encouraging Stories From Special Needs Families. The book has had a good run all week, remaining on the top sellers. Today, it still ranks #46 in the disability studies category on Amazon. I am thrilled to be part of such an inspirational project; in reading the stories, I am convinced that there need to be more books like this out there. Not only did these stories make me laugh and shake my head in agreement sometimes, but they also restored my hope in the kindness of strangers and showed the importance of community. And I’m sure you will too!
Since many of you requested I consider changing my themes according to the seasons, I implemented something different for November. Gearing up for Thanksgiving, I thought we would switch from the theme of “wisdom” to “thankfulness.” Changing the theme will give my dad a much-needed break and allow you to get to know me on a more personal level, as I will come to you via video to share two things I’m thankful for during the week. I hope these videos encourage you to adopt an attitude of gratitude. These days, it’s easy to get “bogged down” by the news and get worried or distracted.
Believe me, I know…
But things could be a lot worse; I’m lucky to live in a country where I am “free” to express my opinions without fear of being jailed or, worse, for just saying the Lord’s name out loud. Unfortunately, not everyone is so lucky. That’s why missionaries must reach out to share The Gospel with the people in the 10/40 window. This “window” is the rectangular area of North Africa, the Middle East, approximately 10 degrees north and 40 degrees attitude. The people include most of the world’s Muslims, Hindus, and Buddhists. Because of the religious persecution in this window, being a Christian is quite dangerous. As a result, they keep their faith a secret.
But remember what God says:
“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33 NIV)
AND
Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God which transcends all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)
In searching for this verse, I came across this version that struck me: “Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything; tell God your needs, and don’t forget to thank him for his answers. If you do this, you will experience God’s peace, which is far more wonderful than the human mind can understand. His peace will keep your thoughts and your hearts quiet and at rest as you trust in Christ Jesus.” (The Living Bible)
I had never heard it explained quite like that before.
I chose Brandon Lake’s “Gratitude” song for the first “Music Monday” of the Thanksgiving season. Although this song centers on the birth of Jesus and the Christmas story, this song reminds us what we should be grateful for this season and for the rest of our lives.
God has done what he promised, sending His One and Only Son as an atoning sacrifice for my sins…
And for yours- if only you’d ask! 😉
You don’t have to do anything- just open your heart and accept God’s free gift.