Every Day is Thanksgiving

By Mark McCrary

Gratitude often seems in short supply in a culture saturated with discontent. Our lives are filled with distractions, from consumerism to the 24-hour news cycle, all feeding a sense of dissatisfaction. 

Yet, Scripture calls us to rise above this discontent, urging a posture of thanksgiving as a transformative discipline. Philippians 4:6 encourages us, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.” Similarly, 1 Thessalonians 5:18 commands, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Gratitude is not just a suggestion but central to a life lived in trust and relationship with God.

Imagine living in a world where thankfulness is the norm, not the exception—a world where gratitude transforms every day into Thanksgiving.

 The Thankful Leper

Luke’s account of Jesus and the ten lepers (Lk. 17:11-19) offers profound insight into the nature of gratitude. These ten men, ostracized by society due to their disease, cried out to Jesus for mercy. Their condition was desperate, marked by physical suffering, isolation, and hopelessness. In response, Jesus instructed them to go and show themselves to the priests according to the law (Leviticus 14:2-32).

The lepers obeyed Jesus before experiencing healing. As they went, they were cleansed. Yet only one—a Samaritan, doubly an outcast as a leper and foreigner—returned to thank Jesus. Falling at His feet, he praised God in gratitude. Jesus marveled, noting that only this one— the least expected— had returned to give thanks. 

 Four Truths About Thankfulness

From this story, first notice that thankfulness is an expression of faith—these men turned to Christ for healing. Faith is trust in God. Gratitude reflects a heart that acknowledges and honors God for His goodness (1 Peter 1:7). Recognizing our blessings motivates us to walk faithfully. Conversely, a complaining spirit often reveals a lack of trust in God’s provision.

Thankfulness also reminds us of God’s goodness—the man healed appreciated what was done for him. Gratitude shifts our focus from scarcity to abundance, highlighting God’s provision (James 1:17).  By choosing to reflect on God’s blessings, we cultivate a heart that is attuned to His faithfulness.

Importantly, thankfulness provides perspective in trials. When healed, the leper clearly saw the difference in his life. Life’s challenges often tempt us to despair, but thankfulness offers a different lens. Even when life is hard, all people can hold to the fact God loves them (John 3:16), and his children can have joy in the fact that Jesus is with them in all struggles, working what is ultimately good for them (Romans 8:28-39).

Finally, thankfulness brings peace. Anxiety often stems from focusing on what we cannot control. Philippians 4:6-7 offers the antidote: be thankful. As we present our concerns to God with thanksgiving, His peace guards our hearts and minds, grounding us in His provision.

All these being true, how can we start living as if every day were Thanksgiving?

 Four Ways to Cultivate Thankfulness

Let’s start with this: take time to embrace your blessings. Many of us grew up with the song, “Count Your Blessings.” What a message for us all! Thankfulness requires intentional reflection on the good God has done, does and will do in our lives (James 1:17). How often do we overlook these gifts? Slow down and consider God’s kindness, as encouraged in passages like Psalm 103:2, which urges us to “forget not all His benefits.”

Then, let’s embrace joy. A thankful heart is a joyful heart, anchored not in outward circumstances but in eternal truths. Paul’s words in Philippians 4:8 call us to focus on whatever is true, honorable, and praiseworthy. Similarly, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 reminds us to fix our eyes on what is unseen, finding hope even in affliction. Yes, there are hardships, Paul reminds us, but something better is waiting for us! Hold on to that every day!

This brings us to a needed practice— embrace humility. One of the number one phrases I hear (and have muttered myself…) when trials hit is, “Why me?” Do we think so highly of ourselves that we think we are immune to problems? That all must be well in our lives? The greats in scripture always dealt with struggles, yet so often expressed thanks! So must we! Pride and self-centeredness are enemies of gratitude. Philippians 2:5-8 reminds us, we are called to emulate Christ’s humility, focusing on serving others rather than ourselves.

Let’s wrap this up with one more: Embrace service. Gratitude is magnified when we turn outward, serving others in love. Galatians 6:10 exhorts us to “do good to everyone, and especially to those who are of the household of faith.” When we meet the needs of others, we are reminded of God’s generosity toward us, shifting our focus from our problems to His purposes.

 Conclusion

The story of the ten lepers challenges us to consider whether we, like the Samaritan, will return to thank Jesus for His blessings. Let’s move thankfulness from momentary expression to daily practice.  As we do so, we will find peace, joy, and a deeper awareness of God’s blessings in every circumstance.

Being A Disciple - Part 2

By Mark McCrary

This article continues from last week where the questions addressed were “What is a Disciple?” and “Why is it Important for Disciples to be Like Christ?”

What Is Expected of a Disciple?

The life of a disciple is marked by several key characteristics. First and foremost, a disciple is a learner (Matthew 11:28-30). Jesus calls people to Him to learn and grow. Baptism marks the beginning of this journey, but it’s not the end. Continued learning—through personal Bible study, attending Bible classes, and listening to teaching—is essential for growth. This is why the early church made preaching and teaching such an important part of their gatherings (Acts 20:7).

Second, being a disciple requires following Jesus with total commitment (Lk 9:57-62). In the same way the disciples left their nets to follow Jesus (Lk 5:11), we are called to leave behind anything that would keep us from fully following Christ. Commitment is essential because without it one cannot receive the crown of life (Rev 2:10). This is one of the failings of the teachings of “once saved, always saved” and “preservation of the saints.” These teachings fail to understand why we are saved—to represent God.  If we fail to do so, we fail in our role as disciples and do not have the blessings that come to disciples.

For this reason, obedience is another vital aspect of discipleship. Jesus said, “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). Our love for Him compels us to obey His teachings, and that obedience transforms us. As Paul writes in Romans 12:1-2, we are to be “transformed by the renewal of our mind.” This transformation is evident in the lives of disciples who speak like Jesus, act like Jesus, and love like Jesus.

A true disciple also makes a public confession of faith (Matthew 10:32-33), openly declaring allegiance to Christ even when it is unpopular or risky (Acts 4:19-20).

Love, service, and sacrifice are further hallmarks of a disciple’s life, as seen in the early church (Acts 2:42-47). The early Christians lived lives of love and humility, drawing many to Christ through their example. Following Jesus may require self-denial and even carrying a cross (Matthew 10:38), but the life of a disciple is one of continued growth (2 Peter 1:5-10; Colossians 2:6-7).

Making More Disciples

Understanding discipleship reshapes the way we approach evangelism. The goal isn’t simply to "save" people from hell but to bring them to God and teach them to follow Him. Importantly, baptism is a crucial step, but it is not the journey's end.  In 1 Corinthians 1:16-17, Paul said he didn’t come to baptize, but to “preach the gospel.” The goal isn’t merely to escape judgment, but to live transformed lives that reflect “the gospel”—the good news of Jesus!

This, then, changes how we evangelize. Instead of focusing solely on warning people about hell, we lift up Jesus for the world to see (John 12:32). The best way to do so is not through fear of hell, but through love—God’s love for us and then our love for others.  This is the impact of Jesus’ teachings on our lives.  As disciples, we become living testimonies of Christ’s teachings (Matthew 5:16; John 13:35). Our transformed lives, marked by peace, joy, and purpose, become the most powerful witness to the gospel (1 Peter 2:12; Romans 12:2). Then, in words, we share the teachings of Jesus with others.

Conclusion

Being a disciple of Jesus is more than knowing facts or performing rituals. It’s about living a life that mirrors Christ, deepening our relationship with God, and showing others what a transformed life looks like. As we follow Him, we become reflections of His character in the world. This is the life Jesus calls us to live. Through our discipleship, we offer the world a better way—a life of purpose, peace, and joy in Christ.

Being a Disciple - Part 1

By Mark McCrary

In the gospel of Matthew, Jesus commands His followers to "make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19-20). The concept of discipleship is central to His teachings. Yet, in modern Christian discussions, there’s often more focus on the question of salvation: “Are you saved?” or “Do you want to be saved?” “Have you been baptized? Do you want to be baptized?” While these questions are important, they can sometimes miss the depth of Jesus' call. Being baptized and saved can become a state of achievement—a box checked, where little is expected beyond attending church occasionally or maintaining a basic spiritual routine. But Jesus calls us to much more. He calls us to discipleship.

Discipleship is more than just accepting Jesus; it’s a lifelong journey of following and being transformed by Him. In fact, the Gospel of John, which emphasizes belief in Jesus (John 20:30-31), uses the word “disciple” more than any other New Testament book. John’s vision of belief is intertwined with being a disciple, not simply someone who is saved. It’s in understanding discipleship that we can truly grasp the life Jesus calls us to live.

What Is a Disciple?

A disciple, in its simplest definition, is a learner—someone who follows the teachings of a master. In Jesus' time, “higher education” consisted of a person becoming a disciple of a rabbi, not merely to gain information, but to adopt a way of life. The master would pass on his teachings, and the disciple would absorb those teachings and put them into practice. The relationship was deeply personal, with disciples often living and traveling with the teacher, learning through both instruction and observation.

For the Christian, our Master is Christ. To be His disciple means to follow His teachings and strive to live as He lived. As Jesus said, “Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me” (Matthew 11:28-30). While Jesus calls the suffering to Himself for relief, this is also a call for disciples, bowed down with the oppressive, self-serving teachings of the scribes and Pharisees, to come to Him and take His yoke (teachings) and be changed by Him. As we follow Jesus, we are molded into His image (Romans 8:29), learning to live as He did, reflecting His character to the world around us (Galatians 2:20).

Why Is It Important for Disciples to Be Like Christ?

Jesus came to perfectly bear the image of God to the world (Hebrews 1:3; John 14:9). He was the fulfillment of what God always intended for humanity—what He had desired from Israel in the Old Testament (Exodus 19:6). In many ways, Jesus is presented as the "anti-Adam" (Romans 5:14-19). Where Adam failed and gave into sin, Jesus remained sinless. Where Adam failed in the Garden, Jesus succeeded (Mt. 26:36-46). Where Adam submitted to temptation, Jesus resisted it (Matthew 4:1-11).

Jesus’ life shows us what it means to live as God intended. We take His words to heart; it is enough for us as disciples to be like our Master.  That is the heart of discipleship—living in such a way that we reflect His image to the world. As we reflect His image, as He reflected the Father, then we fulfill our initial design of bearing God’s image to the world around us.  All because Jesus releases us of our sins and teaches us how to walk (1 Jn 1:7).

(to be continued next week with the topics, “What is expected of a disciple?” and “Making More Disciples”)

The Power of One Talent

By Mark McCrary

In the recent Olympic Games, Stephen Nedoroscik became an instant world-wide sensation when he helped the US men’s gymnastics team win a bronze medal for his pommel horse routine. Nedoroscik’s only talent is the pommel horse– so much so, he’s known as ”Steve the pommel horse guy.”

It is unusual for one team member to do only one routine. As a young man, Nedoroscik loved gymnastics, but struggled with other routines– except the pommel horse.  So, he focused on it. And focused on it. And focused on it.  

In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus told the parable of the talents.  You will remember, there was the five-talent man, the two-talent man and lastly, the one-talent man.  In the end, the one talent man was condemned, not because he had only one talent, but because he did not use his talent.  

Some Christians have five (or more) talents. They are so active and so good at so many things.  Others may only have two, or even one.  If you feel like you are a one talent Christian, that’s okay.  There’s nothing wrong with having one talent. In fact, there’s great power in just having one talent.  Jesus valued simple service, “And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will by no means lose his reward” (Matthew 10:42). Just a cup of cold water is valuable.

You likely have more than one talent to be used in service to God, but if you really think you only have one, learn two lessons. First from the one talent man: don’t hide it. Second, from Steve Nedoroscik: do that one thing well. Do it over and over and over again for and to God’s glory.

Trusting God in Uncertainty

By Mark McCrary

Life can become burdensome almost every day for some people. The book of Habakkuk wrestles with the sovereignty of God in the face of suffering and injustice. Habakkuk teaches us how to embrace deep, unshakable joy in God, even when our circumstances seem overwhelming.

The Painful Cry of the Faithful (Habakkuk 1:2-4)

Habakkuk begins with a prayer of frustration with the wicked. How could God allow their violence on the poor? Why wouldn't He intervene and save? God’s answer? You haven’t seen the worst of it yet. He would deal with the oppressors in Judah through the Chaldeans (Babylonians) (Hab. 1:6-9).

Three pressing questions arise: Why would a good God allow this? How could a good God allow this? Finally, what would Habakkuk do? Habakkuk’s cry resonates with anyone who has ever felt abandoned in their time of need. He was not turning away from God but earnestly seeking Him.

Here’s the good news: God allows questions, which are a desire for a deeper understanding of His ways. Doubts don’t mean one is unfaithful; they are a testament to deep faith. When we wrestle with our questions, we actively seek a greater understanding of God’s will and character.

God is Still in Control (Habakkuk 2:2-3)

God’s message to Habakkuk is that comfort isn’t necessarily found in the removal of problems but in the sovereignty of God. Either what has come upon us has been put there by God (2 Corinthians 12:7), or it is something God has allowed because of our fallen world: 1 Corinthians 10:13 - God will not allow something in our lives that we cannot, by His power, endure.

This can help us find peace in our struggles. We may not always understand His ways, but we can trust that His plans are for our ultimate good (Romans 8:28). Things are not out of control. God loves you (Romans 8:36-39).

Trustful Responses (Habakkuk 3:17-19)

Understanding that God wants to hear even our questions and that He is in control of everything, what should be our response?

First, maintain your faith in Him.  God declared, “The just shall live by faith” (Hab. 2:4). The idea here is more than simply believing in God; it is acting on what He says. 

Second, verbalize your faith in God.  At the conclusion of the book, Habakkuk wrote, “Though the fig tree should not blossom, nor fruit be on the vines, the produce of the olive fail and the fields yield no food, the flock be cut off from the fold and there be no herd in the stalls, yet I will rejoice in the Lord; I will take joy in the God of my salvation” (Hab. 3:17-18).  Saying something out loud makes it more real and commits you to it. Think of the first time you said, “I love you” to someone else. You probably thought about it a lot, but when you said it, things changed.  State your faith verbally to God, not just in thought. State it to a friend. State it to your faith. Habakkuk's faith and trust were deeply rooted in the character and salvation of God. His joy came from the character of God alone (Hab. 3:18-19), not from external conditions.

Finally, know God will strengthen you.  “God, the Lord, is my strength; He makes my feet like the deer's; He makes me tread on my high places” (Hab. 3:19).  Move past trust.  Know with confidence that God will be with you. Just as a deer nimbly moves along, know that in the midst of your uncertainty, God will give you the strength to do the same. Know.

Habakkuk’s name means “embracer.” He embraced God and trusted in Him. It is okay to question God and hurt when life isn’t as imagined. Trust in the sovereign God. Put your faith and confidence in Him, not in circumstances.