"From the Country"

I grew up in the country,

And now that’s where I live,

Full circle long-time coming,

And thankfulness I give.

‘Cause here the Brazos flowing,

And the longhorn cattle graze,

Deer and turkey ‘round the edges,

And the laughter fills our days.

We look forward to the morning,

To the painted, brilliant sky,

Praising at the noontime,

When the sun is way up high.

The darkness slowly coming,

As the shadows start to grow,

The night-time brings its chorus,

And the starry host, you know.

And all of it has color,

And all of it reflects,

The wonderful Designer,

And all that He expects,

Is that we learn to love Him,

And maximize the day,

And out here in the country,

All we have to say,

Is thank God for the blessings,

And for all His favor,

Abundant and eternal life,

In the name of Christ our Savior.

“In everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NAS)

I am thankful. That doesn’t mean I have no problems or that life is perfect. That’s far from true. But in spite of life’s trials and trouble, I am thankful. Why? It’s first and foremost because of Jesus. Creation praises and we praise with it. But it’s the redeemed of the Lord that praise Him for salvation. Even if all of life goes wrong, heaven is assured by the promises of God. And we live for eternity alone. Praise the Lord.

Lord, teach us to be thankful in every circumstance, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Bill Anton, used by permission. Thanks, Bill, and God bless you.