Lord, I come before you today, bringing much thanks and praise. So much of what you give and the blessings you provide are sometimes overlooked or taken for granted. Today there is sunshine, always a blessing to me. As I drive, I see the fields being made ready for planting. There are buds on the trees, and I watch anxiously for the coming leaves. Early spring flowers are now in bloom. Temperatures are climbing, slowly, but climbing.

I’m thankful for health, friends, family, messages from your Word, shelter, food, and laughter.

Recently we celebrated the joy of Easter, the day set aside to praise and honor the resurrection of Jesus from the tomb, so many years ago. The celebration was somewhat different, restricted this year, but I believe there was a joy beyond measure in the hearts of your people.

Ephesians 5:20 says to give thanks in all things, and though we are in the midst of a worldwide crisis, there are reasons to thank you. Progress is being made concerning how best to handle the situation. As the “experts” compare and evaluate statistics it seems that we may be moving in the right direction.

Regardless of the situation around me, I know you are with me. I know too, that your love, mercy, and grace have never changed. They are there anytime I need or ask. I can always depend on you to calm the storm, no matter how high the waves. Your love will guide me, and your strength will carry me through any trial.

I pray that whatever comes before us, it will be a way to draw the lost to an understanding and acceptance of your Word, and the salvation so freely offered.

Help me to never forget the blessing of your love, the joy, and peace that you bring to my life. Amen.

By Wilda Caplinger