The season between Thanksgiving and Christmas always feels a little unusual. We move from family gatherings and celebrations straight into the Christmas season—year-end events, reports, and all the things that demand our attention before the calendar turns.
And then comes the question I’m often asked: “What do you want for Christmas this year?”
My answer? Honestly, there’s nothing I really want. I’m content. This year, my heart is full of gratitude. That is my gift—I’m grateful.
Why Gratitude Matters
The list of things I’m thankful for could go on and on:
• My wife and family
• God’s provision for our needs
• Health, work, and food on the table
I’m reminded of the words in 1 Thessalonians 5:18: “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
Gratitude is more than a polite “thank you.” It’s a posture of the heart that acknowledges God’s goodness—even when life feels uncertain. When we are grateful, we recognize that every good and perfect gift comes from God (James 1:17). Gratitude strengthens our faith, reminds us of God’s past faithfulness, and brings peace because thankfulness drives away worry and fear.
What I’m Grateful For
• The Kentucky Baptist Convention family – Amazing ministry happens because of so many wonderful people serving and making a difference in Kentucky and beyond.
• The Cooperative Program – Our faithful church partners prove that we are far better together than we are alone.
• Our missionaries – Men and women who go to places many would never go, taking the Gospel to the ends of the earth.
• Kentucky Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers – Serving faithfully, willingly, and with joy. Whenever I call, they say YES!
• Kentucky pastors and staff – Proclaiming the Gospel where God has called them. Together, we’re making a difference.
Above all, I’m grateful for a God who loved us so much that He sent His Son to take away the sin of the world. Jesus is the greatest gift of all. In Christ, all things are good, and His peace truly passes all understanding.
Pause and Reflect
In the busyness of this season, I encourage you to pause and make your own list of what you’re grateful for. You may find, as I have, that:
• We have so much to be thankful for
• We are small, and He is great
• His blessings are abundant
May you have a blessed and very Merry Christmas!
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