The Blessings of Abundance

We talk a lot about gratitude at Thanskgiving, but somehow I always find myself at a loss for what to say. Not because I'm ungrateful -- although I do take far too many blessings for granted. On the contrary, how can I pick just a few things for which I am grateful? How can I put them into simple phrases?

How can I express gratitude for a Savior Who was willing to die so that I might live eternally with Him? Impossible.

How can I express gratitude for shelter -- not only protection from the elements, but a beautiful home that I can share with my family? Impossible.

How can I express gratitude for my family, for the love and tenderness they have always shown to me? Impossible.

How can I express gratitude for humor and laughter, two "unessential" blessings that God has graciously given to us? Impossible.

 

How can I express gratitude for the beauties of nature, the glorious palette of colors and textures that so often takes my breath away? Impossible.\

How can I express gratitude for human companionship, for dear friends who understand and love me? Impossible.

How can I express gratitude for the blessings of freedom and security in a deeply troubled world? Impossible.

How can I express gratitude for food, and an abundance of it, when so many others have so little? Impossible.

How can I express gratitude for being made in God's image and for bearing His likeness, however imperfectly? Impossible

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When I say that I'm thankful for family, or friends, or any of the multitude of other blessings that I have, it seems so inadequate to just use one word. It's impossible for me to put into words how I feel without sounding glib and trite. And that's why, above all, I'm grateful for a Lord who can understand my heart when my words are insufficient. Thank you, Lord!