I Am Thankful

On this day of Thanksgiving when people across the country gather with family and friends to partake in food, fun and fellowship, I wanted to share with those who read here the many things I am thankful for.

1. I am thankful for Christ's sacrifice, a gift that is the gift of all gifts, that I don't deserve and can never earn on my own.

2. I am thankful for the trials and tribulations in my life, for they are allowing God to reveal more of His greatness and glory to me, and drawing me closer to Him.

3. I am thankful for Annette, my wife, for the 2 beautiful kids she has given me, for the many things she's introduced me to (Jars of Clay, Cary Grant and Indian food, to name a few), the good memories we have, her friendship and love and much, much more.

4. I am thankful for Josh, my son, who is turning into an amazing young man who has an awesome heart for God.

5. I am thankful for Joy, my daughter, who is what her name says, and has allowed me to see the world through the eyes of a young child.

6. I am thankful for my sister, the last of my immediate family, for her help and support as I move forward in personal growth.

7. I am thankful for my church, Calvary Chapel South LA, who in one short month have become more family than church.

8. I am thankful for the opportunity to serve my church, and repay at least a little of all they and the Lord have freely given me.

9. I am thankful for my job which I love and enjoy, and a company who values me.

10. I am thankful for the freedoms we have, and grateful to all the men and women who have served and are serving to protect those freedoms.

11. I am thankful for all of my friends, near and far, who are always there for me with a caring word, a listening ear and even a rebuke when needed.

12. I am thankful for the many great and wonderous things that God has in store for me that He has not yet revealed.

Yes, I am thankful.

God is good.

It's great to be alive!