The one thing all humans have in common is that each of us wants to be happy, says Brother David Steindl-Rast, a monk and interfaith scholar. And happiness, he suggests, is born from gratitude. An inspiring lesson in slowing down, looking where you're going, and above all, being gratefulWATCH NOW
Gratitude is a basic attitude for the followers of Jesus. Set aside a time each day this week for the family to give thanks to God. Invite each family member to write down three things he or she is grateful for, such as “I got a B in reading; I met a deadline at work.” Younger children can dictate their thanks. Take turns reading aloud the written items. After each item is read, the whole family can respond: “Thank you Lord, for this and for all good gifts.” RCL Benziger
A Prayer for a Heart of Thanksgiving
Lord, teach me to offer you a heart of thanksgiving and praise in all my daily experiences of life. Teach me to be joyful always, to pray continually and to give thanks in all my circumstances. I accept them as Your will for my life (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18). I long to bring pleasure to Your heart daily. Break the power of the enemy in my life. Defeat Him through my sacrifice of praise. Change my outlook and attitude into one of joyful contentment with my present circumstances. I thank You for… [Name a difficult circumstance in your life presently and thank God for it.] Amen.
If you are like me, it is easy to forget how “God provides” if you are too focused on others’ blessings. We live in a culture that incessantly prompts us to want more and more of what others have – and INSTANTLY!
"For Ignatius many things--no matter how seemingly inconsequential--are occasions for gratitude. You recall the, and you "relish" or "savor" them, as Ignatius would say."
