Delightful Gifts

“God shines forth. Our God comes and will not be silent…He summons the heavens above,and the earth, that he may judge his people…’Sacrifice thank offerings to God,fulfill your vows to the Most High,and call on me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you, and you will honor me.'”
– Psalm 50:3-15

The Maker grins at the sparrow’s warble, an elm branch flourishing its quenched leaves, and the flush of color rising from the atmosphere’s edge at the end of a day. An infinite universe spins overhead in a glorious display of the Creator’s genius. He fashioned every subatomic particle to wrap a masterful design of benefit around His favorite creation–us. God positioned us among a wide array of blessings, and mankind has surrendered an assortment of these in the ongoing quest to please God.
Smile upon us, Lord. See? We return these gifts to You.
We never consider the impact of our gift, but check it off the list. Most of us invest more thought in the purchase of a holiday gift card. Who would bless a fisherman with canned fish?
One type of offering warms a broad smile onto the Lord’s countenance. Our Father delights in sacrifices of the heart and soul. When thankfulness and obedience radiate from within us, life tingles through our fingertips and toes. The Spirit swells into divine warbling and praise and the world around us sees colorful splashes of power. God hears those who live thankful prayers. He receives sincere praise and doubles it back on us in a blessing-drench.
Take a moment to observe the heavens. Consider presenting your heart to the Lord in thankful surrender. What will you do to live your prayer of praise and submission?