My editor recently challenged me to think of my pile of papers as something to be thankful for. That is not my usual approach. THE PILE represents time-consuming paperwork and procrastinated decisions that elicit my irritation, not gratitude.

THE PILE refers to my stacks of paperwork that accumulate. I open envelopes, cull junk mail, and recycle nonessential papers. I save and stack only important paperwork. But THE PILE still grows.

Eventually, I have to address the overflowing pile. Working through the pileof papers, I get irritated because it takes longer than expected. In my experience, gratitude and THE PILE have never mixed. My wise editor gave me this assignment, so I will try to face my paperwork with gratitude instead of irritation. After stacking my random expanding piles, I took the photo below as a start.

Lord God, thank you for THE PILE, this overwhelming pile of paperwork. Teach me to appreciate your blessings, like this comfortable place to sit and deal with my paperwork.

My book of prayer lists tops THE PILE. Dear Jesus, thank you for precious people I can pray for; help me to pray faithfully.

My Bible—what a gift that is, Lord. I can read it anytime, no one will take it away from me, and it is your true Word. Help me dig into your Word more often.

Recipe card for tonight’s dinner in my Mom’s handwriting. Thank you, Lord Jesus, for memories. My mother loved you so much and served her family without complaining. Teach me to be more hospitable and patient about serving others.

The Ministry of Ordinary Places by Shannan Martin (Nelson Books, 2018). She writes so many wise and challenging insights. Here are parts of her prayer from page 185:

“Oh Lord, remind us that what we really want is more of you. You show us what it means to remain where you have placed us with great purpose—
Show us the real way of worship, and grant us the guts to belong to each other when it’s hardest.
You are here, tuning our hearts to endurance, teaching us a love song for the long haul.
Help us to endure when we feel dog-tired. Have your way.” Shannon Martin

Lord, thank you for Shannan Martin’s inspiring book about living for you.

A pad of paper to write, make lists, and keep track of things. Dear God, thank you for little helps with my chores.

Vehicle recall notice—Lord, thank you that this car company will fix the rear subframe because it may corrode prematurely on de-iced roads. Thank you that someone figured this out and I can get it fixed before our snowy Minnesota roads next winter.

A Mother’s Day card that still makes me smile. Thank you, dear Jesus, for loved ones.

Church bulletin—Dear Lord God, thank you for our church. Thanks for events where we can serve you and sermon notes that challenge my attitude in serving you.

A self-help book—Lord, help me learn how to communicate with others, especially with those who see the world differently than I do. Motivate me to read and learn, especially the books that are Bible-based and give practical ideas.

Vacation Bible School (VBS) curriculum and posters—God, thank you that I get to serve little ones. Help me prepare thoroughly so that I can serve them with Jesus’ love.

A book to read and write a book review for my friend. Thank you, Lord, that B published her book series that honors you. It’s not my genre, but help me to write a good review for teens that need to read B’s work.

Health insurance paperwork—The premiums seem like a lot to pay, but thank you, Lord, for your provision for me in case of illness.

Donation receipts—Thank you, dear God, for blessing me far beyond my essential needs. Motivate me to give, so that I don’t selfishly keep your blessings to myself.

Lord, thank you for opportunities: new recipes to try, an upcoming seminar, and webinar notes from an interesting seminar.

My GriefShare workbook, leader’s guide, and training notes—Dear Jesus, thank you for this program that brings your comfort to grieving people, like it did for me. Bring the people you choose to our leadership team and guide us in scheduling and preparing for our next session.

Lord God, You have blessed me with guidance, direction, and purpose throughout this pile of papers. Help me to be grateful for the blessings represented by this paperwork. Teach me to love and serve you through the many opportunities you have given me. Forgive me for being irritated and complaining about being busy. I pray like Shannon Martin did: “even when I am dog-tired, have your way in my life.” In Jesus’ name. Amen.