Just 5

I copied this from a blogging group as something to write about.

"Finally, beloved, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8, NRSV)

Friends, it's nearly Thanksgiving in the U.S. and it's the time of year when we are pressed to name things for which we are thankful. I want to offer a twist on the usual lists and use Paul's letter to the church at Philippi as a model. Name five things that are true, honorable, just, pure, pleasing, commendable, excellent or worthy of praise. These could be people, organizations, acts, ideas, works of art, pieces of music--whatever comes to mind for you."

True: the Bible, Jesus, good friends and family, pet dogs and cats
Noble: hard work, honesty, those who help others, trailblazing missionaries, those who strive for worthwhile goals
Right: churches who are reaching new people, a fair verdict, an honest mechanic, people who return valuables they find such as wallets, an honest wage, encouragers
Pure: clean water, a kind heart, love offerings, a child's smile, clean air
Lovely: trees in fall, handmade quilts, flowers blooming, waterfalls and beaches, a genuine smile
Admirable: intricate handiwork or art, someone who gives up everything to follow the Lord, those who strive for excellence whether they win or lose, those who spend hours a day in prayer, those who treat all people as important
Excellent: a delicious meal, wonderful music, good news, a surgeon's skills, the comfort of seeing the cross lit up in the distance in a time of crisis, beautiful churches
Worthy of Praise: a kind heart, people who keep their word, the Lord, a faithful church, a faithful pastor, and a faithful member, those who actively strive to grow as Christians