Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.

Ephesians 5: 1, 2

At times I am overwhelmed at the humility and grace that shape the attitudes of those who follow Jesus.  There is no cajoling, demanding, just a loving invitation to love Jesus, enjoy that love and share it will all, beginning with those closest to us, family, friends and so on.

I note that all is based on our walk in the way of love.   If the love of God is in us, it will express itself in the same way that we observe in Jesus himself.  It is not superficial love, but a love that changes us entirely, it was the love that drove Jesus to die for us so that we might be cleansed.

At the heart of it all is Jesus’ obedience to his Father, a love that gives and gives, as an offering to God, a sacrificial offering, costing us everything but gaining everything!

Thanksgiving Day is upon us.  May we thank God for Jesus who did it all for us.

Is it disrespectful to believe that God is pleased with our lives and words of thanksgiving?   Paul calls it a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God who receives it with his loving heart.  I need to take that to heart, in a big way.