This is the final day of a year most people wish had gone very differently, indeed. And while I understand that – I miss my friends and I miss the ease with which our community of faith could gather – I also think there has been much for which for which to give thanks.

And while some are bidding goodbye and good riddance to 2020, I find I’m less willing to dismiss this year.

There has been much to grieve in 2020, but there has also been a simplicity to this year. The things that matter have REALLY mattered. The things that couldn’t be done have mattered less. I admit I’m sad that I couldn’t travel this year – I had some good trips planned! – but I’m also more deeply thankful for home than I ever have been before. I am more deeply thankful for my country than I have been before. I’m not taking time with friends and family (much of which has been virtual, outdoors or short lived) for granted, the way I might have before.

At the end of the year, I find myself deeply grateful. So I want to share with you a song that Andrew Peterson wrote about thankfulness. This is, “Don’t you want to thank Someone.”:

Until next year (tomorrow!), dear friends, count your blessings and be thankful.