Summary: The question “Who should be thankful?” seems like an easy one to answer. Everyone should be thankful, obviously. Everyone has something to be thankful for. But in reality, it’s easier said than done. Sometimes life is difficult and things go wrong. Someone loses a job, a loved one, or a dream. Maybe a family member is sick, bills are overwhelming, or the days feel lonely and hopeless. In those moments of struggle, our tendency can be to look at others and say, “Of course THEY can be thankful! Look at how perfect their lives are!”The truth is that no one’s life is perfect. This is a fallen world. We all have struggles. But as followers of Jesus, we always have reason to be thankful. Colossians says, “Therefore, as you received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in him, rooted and built up in him and established in the faith, just as you were taught, abounding in thanksgiving.” Because of Christ, we are blessed, regardless of what life throws our way. This is why Paul could write from prison about how thankful he was - he was thankful for the kindness of God given through Jesus. Thankfulness can be a difficult practice in difficult times, but when we remember that we are given life and strength from Christ, we can thank him for those gifts. Others will see and desire the same life of strength and gratitude that we show. This is Luis Palau.
