You ever have those moments where you realize just how good your life is and how much you take those good things for granted?

I had one of those moments today.

Since Sunday is considered a “work day” for me as a minister, our shepherds graciously give us a day off every Friday. I love Fridays because I can get up, eat breakfast with the kids, take Joshua and Abby Kate to school, and then spend most of the rest of the day at home with Sunny and Jackson. Today Sunny ran some errands so I stayed home with Jackson. We had such a great time; we listened to music, read books, played in the floor, ate lunch together…it was awesome.

As I was tucking him in, it just struck me how blessed I really am. God’s given me a great wife and three precious children. We’re all relatively healthy. We have food in the pantry. We have a roof over our heads. I can lay my son down for a nap and feel good about his security here in my home. I serve a great group of shepherds who care for me as a child of God, not just as an employee. My children receive godly instruction from some great Christian examples both at church and at school. As I shut the blinds in Jack’s room this afternoon to put him down for nap, I was struck by just how good my life is and how often I take those good things for granted. It’s a weird feeling, being simultaneously thankful and penitent. I wanted to jump for joy and I also wanted to weep.

I know Thanksgiving isn’t until next month; today is a different holiday altogether. But my heart can’t help but praise God for all the good things He has placed in my life. God, forgive me for ever taking these good things for granted.