One Thousand Gifts – Teresa K. Lasher

“Here dies another day

During which I have had eyes, ears, hands

And the great world round me;

And with tomorrow begins another.

Why am I allowed two?”

(G. K. Chesterton, Collected Works of G. K. Chesterton: Collected Poetry: Part 1)

In Ann Voskamp’s book, One Thousand Gifts, she poses the question “why doesn’t anyone ask that question? Why are we allowed two? Why lavished with three? A whole string of grace days? Isn’t even one grace enough?”

It’s true. I am so blessed, yet when one thing doesn’t go as predicted or bad things happen such as discovery of a brain tumor, I am quick to question God. Are you sure, God, that you know what you are doing here? I really don’t have time to deal with surgeons, hospital stays, and recovery. And what if you chose a cancer form of tumor? Will I be quick to praise you for cancer or an incurable disease?

Prayer: Thank you, God, that we have available skilled medical staff and facilities right here in my hometown. You have given me such great joy in my family members and friends. I am truly blessed beyond measure even if my diagnosis is unfavorable.

Ask: Is there something in your life causing great unrest and anxiety? Maybe there’s not enough time left at the end of your day to complete all your tasks. Or, maybe there’s more month left at the end of your paycheck. Can you list three blessings from this day that generates joy in your heart?

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I’m thoroughly enjoying a book, One Thousand Gifts-A dare to live fully right where you are,” my friend Kathy gave me. Ann Voskamp, the author, encourages the reader to be thankful. She claims the “real problem of life is never a lack of time. The real problem of life—in my life—is lack of thanksgiving. Thanksgiving creates abundance; and the miracle of multiplying happens when I give thanks—and He miraculously makes it more than enough.”

The author suggests creating a list of naming God-gifts. This list helps me reflect on the tiniest of good gifts God bestows. When I focus on daily good gifts, it steers me away from dwelling on what I do not have and causes me to be more thankful for what I do have.

I’m up to number 30 today:

30) Good night’s sleep rocked by gentle waves

31) Leisurely morning wake-up

32) Breakfast eaten out doors

33) Full sun warms my brow and head

34) First sail of the spring season, crisp winds—oh, so good to be out in God’s creation!

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