EXPRESSING GRATITUDE

            So how are we at expressing gratitude? I’d like to think that when someone gives me something or expresses something positive, that I say thank you. But I don’t know that I really do that. I think I’m more inclined, when someone compliments me to say “oh this old thing—I’ve had this top forever or do you need new glasses?” Also, when someone gives me a gift, I feel guilty receiving it and immediately start to think what to give the person in return, instead of just saying (and meaning) thank you.

            Completely the opposite of how we sometimes approach gratitude, there’s Paul. He new hardship, imprisonments, stoning, shipwrecks, beatings, hunger, but he wrote, while he was imprisoned the following words: 11 I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13 I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:11-13)

            Have we considered being content in what we have and thankful for what we’ve received?

            How are folks in your church. Are they expressing gratitude and thanksgiving? Look around. Who is giving their:

·         Time

·         Groceries for the hungry

·         Service on committees

·         Their spiritual gifts

·         Their financial gifts

            Too often we are too focused on the negative and ignore the positive. It’s that way in our lives, and it’s that way in our churches.

 

Look around and see what God is providing. Be thankful. Express gratitude.

 

Feel free to contact me at sranousacctg@twcny.rr.com or susanranous@unyumc.org