Gratitude That Inspires Others

Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
"Let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”

Gratitude isn’t just personal—it’s powerful. When Caleb expressed thankfulness to his nurses or joked with visitors despite his pain, it lit up the room. His joy sparked joy in others. Gratitude, even in suffering, speaks louder than sermons.

Caleb had a lot of sayings… but one of my favorites was, “You’re either good or great—choose one.” Almost every morning—even in the hospital—he would ask my husband Alex how he was doing. One day, after hearing “Good” too many times in a row, Caleb looked at him and asked, “What would it take for you to be great?” It was a gentle challenge to rise higher, to choose joy, and to see the greatness in the ordinary.

Reflect: Who in your life needs encouragement today? Send a text or voice note to thank or affirm them. Let your gratitude shine—and maybe even ask someone, “What would it take for you to be great?”