Numbers 11:4 The rabble among (the Israelites in the wilderness) had a strong craving; and the Israelites also wept again, and said, “If only we had meat to eat! 5 We remember the fish we used to eat in Egypt for nothing, the cucumbers, the melons, the leeks, the onions, and the garlic; 6 but now our strength is dried up, and there is nothing at all but this manna to look at.” 

This did not go over well with God. If you read the rest of the chapter you’ll see that God sent to the people an abundance of quail to consume as meat. But then God sent a plague among the people to punish them for their ingratitude and complaining.

Gratitude is not listed in Galatians chapter 5 as one of the “fruits of the spirit”, but I believe it should be. This is particularly true for Americans as we live in a culture that tends to emphasize lack rather than abundance. In a consumer culture it’s important for people to desire what we don’t have, even when we have a lot. The quest for “more/better/new” drives the economy.

But I’m afraid it also breeds a sense of entitlement and want. So this morning I’m taking some time to thank the Lord for what IS, even in the midst of a pandemic. Things may not be as I would prefer, but I have much to be thankful for. As do you.

Lord give us grateful hearts. Amen.