What No One Ever Saw or Heard
This November, we’re slowing down to reflect on what it really means to cultivate gratitude. Scripture tells us to “give thanks in all circumstances,” but that kind of gratitude isn’t a one-time event–it’s a rhythm. A way of seeing God’s hand in the everyday.
Throughout this week, we’re sharing personal reflections from members of the ACO family–board members, pastors, and ministry partners who have seen God’s goodness in unexpected ways. From quiet moments of worship in Kenya to the curveballs of everyday life, their stories remind us that gratitude isn’t based on what we have, but on who God is.
Join us as we walk through these stories and rediscover the daily rhythm of giving thanks.
When I see stars anywhere in the world, my mind always goes back to a night that didn’t go at all the way I planned.
I was driving from Eldoret to Nakuru late one afternoon when my trip turned into a comedy of disasters, three flat tires, darkness settling in, and no help in sight. That long night ended with me sitting inside the hut of the Commander of the Military Police unit. (I promise… not as bad as it sounds!) In the early morning hours, his men returned with two patched tires, and as we stepped outside, I happened to look up.
The Milky Way stretched across the entire sky, horizon to horizon.
A blanket of stars so clear, so bright, it felt like God Himself was whispering,
“I show up in the strangest circumstances and the most unbelievable ways.”
The Good News Translation of 1 Corinthians 2:9 puts it beautifully:
“What no one ever saw or heard, what no one ever thought could happen, is the very thing God has prepared for those who love him.”
I pray that throughout Gratitude Week, you’ve had moments that reminded you of this truth, moments where God’s goodness showed up in unexpected ways, in unexpected places, through unexpected people.
Next week I’ll board a flight to Nairobi, carrying what I can only describe as a mixed bag of emotions. I’m the cryer in our marriage….Kerry is steady, I’m the one tearing up like it’s a Hallmark movie. When Sydney pulls away to head back to school, and when I drop Nathan-Raegan off at Love Field, I know my heart will crack all over again.
And then there’s the part I dread every time: the morning I leave, when Kerry walks out the door for work and I know our relationship is about to become a cellular one for the next 15 to 20 days. Flying used to be fun. Now? I’d rather sit in traffic on 635 all day than sit in a metal tube 40,000 feet in the air.
But tucked into that emotional carry-on bag is something else:
the deep joy of returning to people I love.
The faces of the Victors — Small Vic, Big Vic, and Muscle Vic.
The warm smiles of Ann, Joyce, and Becky.
Norman’s rolling, deep laughter.
Collins’ shy grin.
I leave people in the U.S. to see people in Kenya….and all of those people remind me that relationships are the most meaningful part of the journey.
This week, I hope your heart has been filled with that same kind of gratitude:
• gratitude for family gathering around you,
• gratitude for friends who show up,
• gratitude for even the rivalry-week fans who test your patience,
• gratitude that sneaks up on you and maybe, just maybe, makes you cry.
I’m thankful for you.
Truly.
Thankful that you’re a person God has placed in my life.
A person who adds meaning, joy, and purpose to the work we get to do together.
Be blessed.
And may I be one of the first to say it … Happy Holidays.