Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Think about the moments that have made up your life. These moments might lead you to say, “Nothing will ever be the same.” After sitting next to a former marine waiting to get his car back from the shop, he recalled his time in Vietnam. I recalled my time in the Navy. Indeed our memories take us to unfamiliar places and unfamiliar events, yet there is an opportunity to be joyful.

How about you and me? Can we not, with St. Paul, offer prayers of thanksgiving for what some might think is obvious or even sublime? When we are joyful in the midst of the challenges, it is a witness. When we give thanks to God in all circumstances, from beginning to end, it is a witness to those around us.

Jim Kirk
Festus, MO

Lord Jesus Christ, lead us to look to You, the author and perfecter of our faith, and give thanks for all You have done. Amen.

Reflect: Remember, when the Lord returns, nothing will ever be the same.

Read: Hebrews 12:1-4 and Hebrew 13:5-8