It is a fair question to ask, especially in a year like 2020. We’ve seen a multitude of “difficult” things in our estimation, however not as difficult as some things experienced by other brothers and sister in Christ around this earth.

So, what should we be thankful for in these difficult times? In times when corruption and hunger, war and disaster, when moral objectivism has been rampantly replaced by moral relativism… Honestly the answer is really simple for those of us in Christ Jesus, we are to be thankful, that our “inheritance” has not been paid out yet… Read with me in Peter’s first letter…

“(3) Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Because of his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead (4) and into an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and un-fading, kept in heaven for you. (5) You are being guarded by God’s power though faith for a salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1 Peter 1:3 – 5 CSB

Peter seems pretty clear, that our “thankfulness” should be focused on eternity, not the, here and now. Although I am not saying that we shouldn’t be thankful for here and now, what God has provided for, and blessed with, of course that should be done, and done constantly. However we as Christians often forget that while we might be getting “roared” at Christ is the victor not our true enemy… This place, this vessel or body, neither were meant to last, in Paul’s estimation, “For me to live is Christ, but to die is gain.” Paul carried with him the understanding that while I am on this earth I am to point to Christ, but upon that final moment of my death or “graduation” from this place, or when Jesus returns that will be “gain” in the truest sense of the term…
So while we are barricaded in our homes in some places, unable to attend church, unable to work for some people, unable to connect with other believers. While we are constantly seeing the corruption in our government or how society has degraded itself with relativism… We should be like Peter’s readers…

“(6) You rejoice in this, even though now for a short time, if necessary, you suffer grief in various trials (7) so that the proven character of your faith — more valuable than gold which, though perishable, is refined by fire — may result in praise, glory, and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ.” 1 Peter 1:6 & 7 CSB

In short, we should put our focus where it needs to be, ever preparing for the undeniable day of Christ’s return… Rejoice! Brother and Sister! Christ is coming, so trials and difficulties are short lived. So we can be thankful in times like these! Because these are fleeting moments, ushering in eternity with Jesus Christ!