where praise is lacking."
~ J.I. Packer
We thank God for gifts unmerited....
:: candy-stiped zinnias ::
:: smoothie mustaches ::
:: bikes on the back walk ::
:: sand washed off in the bathtub ::
:: drying beads of clean toes ::
:: sweet corn waving its slender green flags in the garden ::
:: chalk flowers sprouting on the garage floor ::
:: tying up soccer cleats ::
:: the smell of his t-shirts ::
:: a trail of legos and dreams and new innovations ::
:: shy, ripening hope of zucchinis ::
:: my mama buttering scones and pouring tea ::
:: empty sinks ::
:: wings brought on a thumb, big eyes pointing ::
"All praise to God, the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who has blessed us with every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ.
Even before he made the world, God loved us...
God decided in advance to adopt us into his own family by bringing us to himself through Jesus Christ. This is what he wanted to do, and it gave him great pleasure.
So we praise God for the glorious grace he has poured out on us who belong to his dear Son.
He is so rich in kindness and grace that he purchased our freedom with the blood of his Son and forgave our sins.
He has showered his kindness on us, along with all wisdom and understanding. "
Lord, to grow true holiness, I need to cultivate awed adoration for You. Work this soul soil today. Today, let me not lack praise. Else none of it adds up to the holiness You seek...
Consider beginning today to cultivate your own soul soil of awed adoration.
Photos: from a week of simple praise
Tomorrow: interview with author L.L. Barkat -- please, come sit with us a spell... would be our delight...
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