adds-on

A local farmer had come to the conclusion that the local car dealer had profited greatly by all the add-on options that increased the price of cars sold to the hapless farmer. Then one day the car dealer informed the farmer that he was coming around to buy a cow. In the spirit of justice, the farmer attached the following price information to the cow:

Basic cow $500

Two-tone exterior $45

Extra stomach $75

Product storing compartment $60

Straw chopper $120

Four spigots at $10 each, $40

Cowhide upholstery $125

Dual horns $15

Automatic fly swatter $38

Fertilizer attachment $185

TOTAL: $1,233.00

Aren't you glad God doesn't charge us for all the extras He provides us in life? You know what I mean -- the beautiful sunrise and sunset, the changing color of the leaves in fall, the glory of the stars at night, the beautiful scenery ranging from the majestic mountains to the pounding surf of the ocean. How blessed we are! And not a single penny extra!

"Oh, give thanks to the LORD, for He is good!

For His mercy endures forever.

Oh, give thanks to the God of gods!

For His mercy endures forever.

Oh, give thanks to the Lord of lords!

For His mercy endures forever:

Him who alone does great wonders,

For His mercy endures forever;

To Him who by wisdom made the heavens,

For His mercy endures forever;

To Him who laid out the earth above the waters,

For His mercy endures forever;

To Him who made great lights,

For His mercy endures forever --

The sun to rule by day,

For His mercy endures forever;

The moon and stars to rule by night,

For His mercy endures forever." (Psalm 139:1-9)

As you go through this day, try to be mindful of each and every blessing you enjoy from the hand of God. It is so easy to take everything for granted. But, how richly God has blessed us! Praise and thanksgiving be to our Lord!

-alan smith