Jim Daly

Forgiveness is transformational. But it isn’t easy. Because it requires a lot.

Jesus tells a parable in Matthew 18:23-35 about a servant who owes the king a debt of 10,000 talents. Estimates vary on exactly how much that converts to in today’s dollars, but many commentators suggest that one talent was roughly a year’s wages. Referencing 10,000 talents was Jesus’ way of communicating that the servant was hopelessly in debt to the king. Which is what makes the king’s gracious forgiveness so remarkable.

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Every December I look forward to slowing down during the Christmas season and reflecting on God’s generous provision over the past year. Despite my best intentions, however, I struggle to find quiet time because there’s always so much going on during the holidays.

I know I’m not alone. Christmas is filled with unrealistic expectations. We put a lot of energy into shopping, decorating, attending parties, and wrapping gifts, and we wonder why we feel so stressed out instead of refreshed and closer to God and our families.

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Happy Thanksgiving!

The Bible has a lot to say about giving thanks. We’re encouraged to “give thanks to the Lord” (1 Chronicles 16:34), to pray “with thanksgiving” (Philippians 4:6), and to receive God’s provision “with thanksgiving” (1 Timothy 4:4). We’re also told that our generosity in Christ stirs up responses of thanksgiving in others (2 Corinthians 9:11), spreading gratitude for God outward.

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the blessings the Lord has given us and to express our gratitude for His bountiful grace and mercy.

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With the economy still troubled and unemployment figures struggling to right themselves, thankfulness may be in short supply for many Americans this year. The early Pilgrims encountered extreme hardship as well. But their response is instructive.

The Pilgrims’ effort to colonize America was fraught with challenge from the moment they stepped foot on the Mayflower. The journey across the Atlantic Ocean took 65 days in cold, damp, and miserable conditions. A number of the passengers became ill, and one person died before they reached the shore of their new home.

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I’m an extrovert. I love to talk. But some people run into brick walls at the end of the day. They drag themselves into the house each night, and dread what’s coming: their spouse asking, “How was your day?” Their mind goes blank, or they groan at the thought of having to explain everything that happened at work.

Most couples need more than a simple reminder to talk more, they need a plan. So, here are a couple of practical ideas you and your spouse can put into practice tonight.

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