For those of you not familiar, Psalm 136 is a list of God's deeds, both in general and specifically toward the people of Israel. This list is made up of short verses containing simple phrases describing events and a refrain of "for His mercies endureth forever."
Each action, both great and small in absolute sense, is entirely attributed to His mercies. Placing such an emphasis puts them all in the appropriate context: blessings that come from Him alone.
The man that presented the Psalm pointed out that the whole structure of it was for the purpose of recitation and response. One would mention the goodness of God and the rest would reply, acknowledging His hand.
So, it is fitting that we would be able to do the same with things in our own lives.
We were challenged as families to sit down and discuss what things were are similarly thankful for.
Here is the list compiled by the members of my family capable of reasoning (Samantha did not contribute).
He makes rainbows and sunsets for us to see and enjoy; for His mercies endureth forever.
He gives us love and family; for His mercies endureth forever.
He allowed us all to be born in America; for His mercies endureth forever.
He is always with us everywhere and in everything; for His mercies endureth forever.
He sees us and knows us fully and completely in a personal way; for His mercies endureth forever.
He gives us godly examples to learn from; for His mercies endureth forever.
He sent His word to the world, so we could know Him and about Him; for His mercies endureth forever.
He loved unworthy sinners; for His mercies endureth forever.
He sends rain on just and unjust; for His mercies endureth forever.
He changes our hearts to want to serve Him; for His mercies endureth forever.
It was a simple and fast exercise. It took us less than 30 minutes to produce this list. For anyone who knows God, this should be equally simple.
He deserves it; for His mercies endureth forever.
