Matthew 15:31-32

Feeling weary or unseen? Step into the stories of Jesus’ life and discover His heart of compassion. In this devotional, you’ll walk alongside the Savior, witness His miraculous love, and experience His radical grace in a fresh and personal way. Each day draws you closer to the tender, welcoming Christ who still meets you exactly where you are.

According to the dictionary, thanksgiving is an expression of gratitude, especially to God. It is easy for us to be thankful when things are wonderful, but the real test comes when trials arise in our lives. However, when we choose to be thankful in the most dreadful of situations, it is an invitation for the God of Miracles to show up and move on our behalf.

There are some names in the Bible that everyone knows: Adam and Eve, Noah, Moses, Mary, Peter, Paul. But the Bible is also full of stories with unnamed characters. People who made a difference not in the spotlight, but in the shadows. We often think they and we are insignificant if the spotlight is not on. But here's the good news: God chooses and uses shadow Christians.

Throughout the New Testament, Jesus shows compassion toward unlikely “sinners” who expressed great faith. Whether tax collectors, Roman centurions, or Samaritan women, Jesus repeatedly shows that he came to rescue people burdened with shame. During this plan, Bible teacher and author Kat Armstrong illustrates how these stories strengthen our understanding of God’s empathy and knowledge of how all types of people express beautiful faith in Jesus.