Not too long ago, I began reflecting on my life and began to replay those moments where I stumbled or tripped in my walk with the Lord. And I continue to stumble and trip. Graciously, patiently, and lovingly, the Lord grabs my hand, lifts me up from the dirt, and gives me clean clothes to wear. I thank Him that He has clothed me in Christ. Desiring to show appreciation to the Lord for all He's done, how can I possibly return the favor? And if I could, what would He even want in return?

So I asked the Lord those questions.

Taking a walk, listening to music, tuning my ears to His voice, and genuinely seeking an answer,

He replied:

We look to the cross and we see Christ taking on humanity's burden, absorbing the sin of this world. This act would include a body broken, blood poured out, a wrath satisfied, and a love and mercy extended. We stand in awe of a righteous judge and an extravagantly gracious God and ask, "What can I possibly do to repay this rescuing act, an act that would eternally draw me to Himself?"

And the answer doesn't come through any work you can perform, any status you can reach, or any prize you can attain,

but rather through belief...

and thanks.

So I continued the conversation with the Lord, "Father, how can I thank you?"

And He answered with a Scripture:

"So then, just as you received Christ, Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness."