Sunday, August 3, 2025  

Today's Scripture
Genesis 21:1–7

The Lord dealt with Sarah as he had said, and the Lord did for Sarah as he had promised. Sarah conceived and bore Abraham a son in his old age, at the time of which God had spoken to him. Abraham gave the name Isaac to his son whom Sarah bore him. And Abraham circumcised his son Isaac when he was eight days old, as God had commanded him. Abraham was a hundred years old when his son Isaac was born to him. Now Sarah said, “God has brought laughter for me; everyone who hears will laugh with me.” And she said, “Who would ever have said to Abraham that Sarah would nurse children? Yet I have borne him a son in his old age.” (NRSV)

Reflection

Reading about Sarah’s joyous reaction to Isaac’s birth, I realized that when good things, even great things, happen in my life, I’m not as grateful to God as I could be and should be.

Three years ago I developed prostate cancer and had surgery to have it removed. I was thankful for the surgeon and for the many gifted and caring people who took care of me. And I am grateful to God for the positive outcomes I have had so far. But I could have and should have thanked God for these people and these results then and each and every day since.

I just celebrated twenty-three years in my relationship with my husband, Dale. I am so grateful for his patience, love, and support. I should thank God each and every day for bringing Dale into my life. And for sustaining our relationship all these years since.

Gratitude to God is an “each and every day” thing, for the chance to pause and say “thank you” to God for the big things and the little things.

Prayer

Dear Creator God, thank you for all the many good things and great things in my life, the big things and the small ones. Please remind me, amidst the busyness of life, to pause and say “thank you” each and every day. In Jesus’ name I offer this prayer. Thank you and Amen!

Written by Ed Miller, Member of Fourth Presbyterian Church

Reflection and Prayer © Fourth Presbyterian Church

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