The world is so full of a number of things,
I’m sure we should all be as happy as kings.
Robert Louis Stevenson
My grandmother liked her beverages fully iced; I imagine growing up in steamy-hot southern Illinois had something to do with it. She kept a Styrofoam container in her freezer, refilling it from her ice cube trays.
I’m trying to remember the last time I made ice cubes. From scratch.
Most days, I can fill a glass of chilled water from my refrigerator door. But not always. My fridge has a “design flaw:” the water spout freezes up. I am told that I could replace the door (pricey) or replace the refrigerator (even pricier). Or I can use a plastic squeeze bottle to force hot water into the spout until it runs again.
Or I can drink perfectly fine tap water.
I’m looking around in awe right now at the enormous blessings I often take for granted. Things my grandparents couldn’t begin to imagine. Things much of the world couldn’t use even if they could afford them. We call them “modern conveniences,” and don’t think about them until something goes wrong.
The truth is that they go right a lot more than they go wrong.
And when they do go wrong, there are people who are willing, for a fee, to set them right again. Amazing!
I don’t know how long this clarity of vision will last, probably until the next modern becomes “inconvenient.” But for now, I want to come to a full stop, look around and remember Who created all these things for me to employ – and enjoy.
Remember Who shows His power and love in these tangible ways.
Remember Who continually blesses and watches over me.
Because, above all, He deserves praise. All the time, not just when I find it convenient.
With all my heart I praise the Lord,
and with all that I am I praise his holy name!
With all my heart I praise the Lord!
I will never forget how kind he has been.
The Lord forgives our sins, heals us when we are sick,
and protects us from death.
His kindness and love are a crown on our heads.
Each day that we live, he provides for our needs
and gives us the strength of a young eagle.
Psalm 103:1-5 Contemporary English Version (CEV)