The ‘Mike’ is observing Thanksgiving week with the “Thanks” Series, articles of reflection written by four guest contributors. Each writer will share his thoughts on an inspirational quote about thankfulness by a notable Christian. I’d like to introduce you to my guests.

Stephen Chan is the writer of Faith Comes from Hearing. I enjoy Stephen’s very Bible-centered, matter-of-fact way about living for God. Stephen is strong in the word and his writing is valuable Bible study. He will share reflections on a quote made by 14^th century German theologian Eckhart Meister: “If the only prayer you said in your whole life was, ‘thank you,’ that would suffice.”

Chris Hendrix is the writer of Devotions by Chris. Passion for God and honesty characterize Chris’s writing, which also strives to encourage those who have experienced hardship in life. Chris will share reflections on a quote by 19^th century American theologian Albert Barnes: “We can always find something to be thankful for, and there may be reasons why we ought to be thankful for even those dispensations which appear dark and frowning.”

Kevin Daniel is the writer of The Number Kevin. If you enjoy humor mixed in with your faith, then you’ll appreciate Kevin and his crafty and offbeat writing style. But he’s no lightweight. He writes insightfully and speaks up on the matters that need to be heard. Kevin will share reflections on a quote by early 20^th century thinker and apologist G.K. Chesterton: “You say grace before meals. All right. But I say grace before I open a book, and before sketching, painting, swimming, walking, playing, dancing and before I dip the pen in the ink.”

Mel Wild is the writer of In My Father’s House. Grace and intimacy with God are themes that strongly characterize Mel’s writing, which I find refreshing and spurring one toward godliness. Mel is a pastor and a long walk with God and experience in ministry inform his articles. He will share reflections on a quote by 20^th century pastor A.W. Tozer: “Perhaps it takes a purer faith to praise God for unrealized blessings than for those we once enjoyed or those we enjoy now.”

I will share reflections on a quote by 20^th century apologist and intellectual C.S. Lewis: “We ought to give thanks for all fortune: if it is good, because it is good; if bad, because it works in us patience, humility, contempt of this world and the hope of our eternal country.”

I hope you’ll return each day this week to read what these writers have to share on thankfulness, in their lives and in general.

Have a blessed and…Happy Thanksgiving.