By Archbishop of Canterbury Justin Welby
There are two ways to live life.
One way is to live as if we’re owed it all, that we deserve everything good that comes our way, and that anything bad we receive is an unfair mistake. The other way is to see it all as a gift.
Everything around us seems to hardwire us to believe we deserve it. All of it: education, fun times, money, respect, friendship, love. But deep down, we know it’s a lie. We know we don’t deserve it any more than anyone else.
Thankfully, God doesn’t work in terms of ‘deserve’. He doesn’t give people what they’ve earned.
Instead, he gives gifts. It’s all an utter gift. Your health. Your friends. Your family. Your future. His love for you. Everything. Gift. Gift. Gift.
And knowing that, the response from us shouldn’t be living like we deserve it, but being thankful.
How might today be different if you chose to see all these gifts for what they are, and be thankful?
From . St Johns Church Donisthorpe, UK