“It is good to give thanks to the Lord and to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning and Your faithfulness by night.”
Psalm 92:1-2 (NASB)
My family went out tonight to eat in the dining room of a restaurant. It was the first time we have done so since the government restrictions were put in place many weeks ago. As we entered the restaurant two employees opened the double doors to let us in. I thanked them in passing, in the way that you do to be polite. It struck me that both of them emphatically replied that they were happy to open the door for us—strongly implying that they were thankful to have the opportunity. This was no longer routine for them; they were excited to be back at work. My conscience was pricked at the thought that I had not been more grateful for their service; they were obviously grateful that we were coming to support their business.
Inside, the other employees were no less excited to see us. They thanked us multiple times for coming both as we walked in and as we were leaving. Once again it occurred to me that these people were not just thanking us because it was a job requirement. By the time we left, their attitude was wearing off on me. I was more thankful than usual for their service, and I was more thankful than usual for the simple opportunity to sit in a restaurant.
In my experience so far, the mornings and the evenings come and go at regular pace. It happens so predictably that I take it for granted. Yet, the morning and evening come and go because of God’s loving kindness and faithfulness. The experience tonight caused me to examine myself and wonder, “What else am I taking for granted?” Of everyone, God’s people ought to be the most grateful. We know that everything, no matter how small, is a thoughtful gift from God. We should look around us and intentionally notice things to be thankful for. We won’t have to look hard, and the realization that he is responsible for so much will cause us to sing praises to his name.
It will be obvious to others that we are grateful because, by definition, gratitude cannot be hidden. The employees of the restaurant, being more grateful than usual, made the experience more exciting than a normal trip to a restaurant. Just as their attitude was contagious, people will be moved by our gratefulness to God. Our attitude can cause others to want to be part of what we have. If we have poor attitude about being a Christian it can drive people away; or, at a minimum, make them indifferent. Especially during these stressful times people need something to grasp on to. Let’s remember to find ways to be grateful.