I know a number of people who are committed to the regular practice of writing a gratitude list. Some do it daily.
Gratitude is a means of grace, a pathway to being attentive to God’s presence, and a reminder of just how interconnected we are. It has the added benefit of helping us to be where our feet are, keeping us from getting swept up in worry over things out of our control.
And gratitude is something we can choose. “I can choose to be grateful even when my emotions and feelings are steeped in hurt and resentment,” says Henri Nouwen. “It is amazing how many occasions present themselves in which I can choose gratitude instead of a complaint. I can choose to be grateful when I am criticized, even when my heart still responds in bitterness. I can choose to speak about goodness and beauty, even when my inner eye still looks for someone to accuse or something to call ugly.”
No wonder the Bible encourages us to give thanks in every situation. Not only is it healthy, but the apostle Paul also says it’s God’s will for you in Christ Jesus (1 Thess. 5:18). So, there’s that.
What’s on your list — your gratitude list? Who are you grateful for and why? What small gifts of grace require your attentiveness today?
With Gratitude,
Pastor Gregg
