The "Smiths," as I will call them, live in the western part of upstate New York. I have visited with them on several occasions. They are generous supporters of several LCMS ministries.
In their living room, across the top of their picture window, a word is displayed. It is in big wooden letters, all capitals and painted gold. The word is "GRATITUDE." It represents the philosophy and motivation behind almost everything they do.
They live and act in gratitude to God for His many blessings to them. Out of gratitude for God's saving grace through Jesus Christ, these folks do what they do in all facets of their daily living...and they are the first to tell you it is so.
It is not every day that one enters a home and sees such Christian motivation so boldly displayed. Although, I must say, it would be good for all of us to see it every day.
(Hans Springer serves God as senior director of direct response with Ministries Support in the LCMS Foundation. His extensive experience in development includes serving Concordia College, Bronxville, New York, and as a member of the Board of Governors for Lutheran Hour Ministries.)