Scripture: Psalm 107:21-22
Let them thank the LORD for his faithful love and his wondrous works for all people. Let them offer thanksgiving sacrifices and declare what God has done in songs of joy!
Thought for the Day: In Ancient Israel, there were rituals by which people brought sacrifices to the temple. Included among these sacrificial offerings, we find the sacrifice of animals. Now I have pointed out before that though we often think of these killing of animals as a means by which God was placated or appeased, that is a rather strange way of thinking about God. The sacrifice had little to do with God and everything to do with the person making the sacrifice. It was a sacrifice to give up a prized and valuable animal, but it also allowed people to better understand the sacrifice God has and continues to make on behalf of humanity. It also taught the people to not prize their stuff above God. A sacrificial offering demonstrated tangible gratitude that pushed the individual beyond empty words, and allowed this person to recognize how the “faithful love” and “wondrous works” of God are not just empty words. They are continually demonstrated through the power of the Spirit, and ultimately in the life and death of Jesus.
Prayer: May my words of gratitude to you, Most Gracious God, be matched with a life that demonstrates true sacrificial gratitude. Amen.
Today Is The Lord’s Day
Let us give thanks…
