Gratefulness

On Thanksgiving eve at my church, I was one of nine persons invited to share what I was thankful for from this past year. As I pondered the assignment in the days leading up to the program I found myself thinking that if I were fully aware of all God’s daily gifts I might find myself overwhelmed by gratefulness. It’s easy to go through life without fully appreciating the many blessings we have—that is until they aren’t there.

In February I spent a few days in the hospital recovering from pancreatitis and gall bladder surgery. I’m more grateful now for my good health and have a new appreciation for the many medical professionals at my church who serve others so well. When we lost power at our house during the recent October snowstorm, I became more aware of what an amazing gift electricity is. This past year several more members of my Wise and Wonderful Sunday school class (80 and 90 year olds) went home to be with the Lord. I’m grateful for their legacy and influence in my life.

It’s ironic that our gratefulness often emerges only after we have been deprived of something. What are the everyday things I take for granted that deserve my gratitude and praise to God? Here’s a short list—some serious and some not so much.

I’m grateful for a loving wife who supports me in my business and a son who inspires me with his personal discipline and courage. I’m grateful for parents and in-laws who remain an active part of my life. I’m grateful for my faith community at Salford Mennonite Church and the opportunities I have to share my gifts there. Thanks Wise and Wonderful Sunday school class members for bringing me joy. Thanks to the many members who have opened their homes and their hearts to my wife and I as we paid them a pastoral care or deacon visit this past year. We received more than we offered in those situations. I’m also grateful for Wawa coffee, Flyers hockey, bluegrass music, and all products made by Apple.

Thomas Merton writes, “To be grateful is to recognize the love of God in everything He has given us—and He has given us everything. Every breath we draw is a gift of His love, every moment of existence is a grace, for it brings with it immense graces from Him. Gratitude therefore takes nothing for granted, is never unresponsive, is constantly awakening to new wonder and to praise of the goodness of God. For the grateful person knows that God is good, not by hearsay but by experience. And that is what makes all the difference.”