Dear Muslim & Christian friends,

I realize that Thanksgiving is an American holiday but what are you thankful for today – wherever you live?

I am thankful for God’s love in Jesus which changed my life on May 28, 1966. I will never forget that day – the day He saved me, rescued me from the penalty of my sins. I will thank Him here and throughout eternity.

I am thankful that although I grew up without a father, God was my perfect Father – a father who never abandoned me but always loved me.

I am thankful for my wife. She has faithfully loved me and stood by me for nearly 40 years. She is a beautiful woman of virtue and one who knows how to keep her marriage vows. My mom says she is a “jewel.” How true.

I am thankful for 3 sons, 3 daughter-in-laws, and 7 grandchildren. They are so special, so incredible, so beautiful. We are rarely all together but when we are – what a blessing.

I am thankful for a 92 year old mother who lives for God every day. I am thankful for a sister and her family who bring so much laughter to our lives. I am thankful for all my other beautiful family members.

I have always had tremendous friends and mentors. I have never been unloved.

I am not homeless or cold. I have a home with heat in the winter. A car that runs. Clothes and shoes. More than enough food to eat every single day.

I live in a country with freedom of speech and religion.

Unlike some in Syria, Yemen, or Iraq, I have not had to fear falling rockets or bombs. I do not have to hold my grandchildren near me, wondering if this day might be their last – or my last – because of that kind of violence.

I am thankful that I have the resources to travel to the nations preaching in churches and building bridges with Muslim friends – sharing what is known as the “Gospel” – the Good News about Jesus’ love displayed in his life, and even more so in his sacrifice.

Finally, I have health. I thank God for health. When you hear Nick Vujicic’s story above – a man born with no arms and legs – you thank God for what you take for granted every single day.

What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving Day?

For starters, how about arms and legs?