Gratefulness: A reality check

I find myself surrounded with so many blessings, and yet even in this month of giving thanks there are times that I sink into the "I wants."  Over the weekend I found myself feeling a little jealous of some friends who were discussing a fun clothing shop that is way over my price range.  I've come a long way in the past two years, but every now and then  self pity can rear its evil head.

And then a good shot in the arm with a dose of get-over-yourself is in order.

I stumbled upon Meg's blog and was drawn to her sense of style.  But that's not why God had me land on her site.  I stopped on her Africa button and stayed there for a long time.  It totally changed my perspective.  Do I want to go to Africa now?  No.  I'm still scared of everything that comes to mind when I think of that region of the world.  But it sure brought me to my knees. 

 These precious little ones come to meet Jesus and receive ONE egg and some vitamins a week.  One egg.  As a treat.  To get some protein.  As Meg put it, "would my children even eat it?"  Would we be grateful?

    This is reality for so many.

Two days after discovering Meg's blog, I came across this blog.  You need to go there.  Take some tissues.   Katie is a beautiful, young woman who has chosen to live permanently in Uganda.  She has adopted 13 children on her own.  The joy that emanates from her can only be from the Giver of Life. 

She writes so beautifully about the blessings of following the Lord's call and yet your heart will break over the love, pain, hunger, beauty, and desolation that surrounds her.  She is living the Word made flesh.  

After spending several hours one night this week reading about these precious little ones I fell on my face before Jesus.  Oh that I would be grateful for all that He has blessed me with.  

Blessed beyond measure.