I hold dear the memories of my primary school days when a Chinese language teacher generously paid for my school fees for an entire year, knowing that my family was struggling financially. She did this act of kindness quietly, and she even declined my parents' attempts to thank her in person. At that time, I wasn't one of the best students in class, and my behaviour wasn't always the best either. But her motivation wasn't based on my performance or behaviour; it came from her sincere desire to help others. Even after all these years, I still remember her warm smile and her name, Madam Chang Xiao Yan. I felt truly grateful to her. She became an enduring example for me.

Unfortunately, I lost contact with her after leaving the school, and the only way I could show my gratitude was through silent prayers for her well-being.

The message in Deuteronomy 26 teaches us about gratitude. It reminds us that the Israelites recognized that all the good things they had come from God (v8, 9). They understood that the land's fertility and abundance were blessings from the Lord, and they were genuinely thankful for these blessings Their gratitude wasn't just a ritual or a duty; it came from the heart as a heartfelt expression of appreciation (v10, 11). The most important way of showing gratitude involved giving back to God as an act of worship. They did this by offering the first fruits they had received, a tangible way of showing their thanks. Furthermore, they practiced gratitude by sharing their blessings with others (v12, 13), all while remaining steadfast in obedience to God's commandments (v14, 15).

Likewise, we should feel thankful when we reflect on Jesus, who made a great sacrifice for us by giving his life on the cross. To show our gratitude to Jesus, we can remember him, worship him, serve him, and serve others and steadfastly adhere to His teachings and commandments.

Prayer: Dear Father, We are grateful for your abundant blessings. May we hold gratitude in our hearts, remembering Jesus' sacrifice, serving Him and others, and faithfully following His teachings. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.