Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God – this is your spiritual act of worship.
• Romans 12:1 (NIV) •

Standing in the kitchen, my eyes taking in the chaos before me, I gripped the broom in sheer frustration. Dirty dishes littered the counter tops while someone’s half-eaten breakfast cereal was splattered around its bowl. An overflowing trashcan begged to be relieved from its load while doughnut glaze covered one corner of the floor like confetti after a celebration. How can one family create such a mess?

Fighting a rising tide of resentment, I completed kitchen duty and made the mistake of hitting the living room full tilt without bracing myself for the inevitable. Why should this room be any different? Stepping over an array of toys, shoes, and clothes, I threw up my hands in an attitude of defeat. I’m outta here…

With an exasperated sigh and a not-so-gentle close of the front door, I stepped out on the porch for a breath of fresh air. Full-blown anger was forming a knot in my stomach. Looking up into the clear summer sky, I vented with, I’m so tired of being taken for granted, Lord! Is a little appreciation too much to ask? No one ever seems to notice what I do around here. Seething, I plopped down on the top step.

The late summer sun was intense but a light breeze tickled my face, providing a respite from the heat. A few yards away, sheltering trees swayed gracefully as whippoorwills and crickets competed for attention. Our dog sat beside me, paws crossed in front, content with my companionship. In the unique beauty of His creation, God spoke.

Oh child, how many times have I touched you with a cool breeze or enveloped you with the warmth of the sun? And oh, how often have I anticipated your reaction to the brilliance of the sunrise filtering through towering poplars or the majesty of that same light as it sinks beneath the clouds at night? My daughter, who daily guides your steps and provides strength when you are weary? Who loves you with an everlasting love and forbears and forgives without end?

And then, with tenderness and compassion…I understand, child, I understand.

Oh Father, I am so sorry.  I confess an ungrateful heart and a spirit of discontentment. Please forgive my selfishness. Help me to keep my eyes and my heart centered on You. Restore in me the joy of servanthood.

If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.

• 1 John 1:9 •

Do you ever feel unappreciated?