“At times our own light goes out and is rekindled by a spark from another person. Each of us has cause to think with deep gratitude of those who have lighted the flame within us.”
Albert Schweitzer
Happy Monday!
It’s Thanksgiving week, and there’s so much to be thankful for! Take just a moment and think of all the many ways we can be grateful. People we love and are loved by, or perhaps some unique treasure we continue to enjoy. Maybe we’ve finally found the dream job or just released something that probably should have gone long ago. Sometimes, it’s painful gratitude when a loved one is finally released from the afflictions of this life. There are many ways we can welcome and release with gratitude.
Sometimes, we are touched by someone in a warm and welcoming way, so much so that we feel the need to share the same spark that was lit within us. These are times to be cherished, as they may seem like only fleeting moments. Other times we get to embrace a season when those little flames seem endless and contagious. I’m sure we’ve all known people who inspire and delight us. Many are still with us, while some have left us with a hole in our hearts where that flame used to reside.
I found these thoughts shared by Albert Schweitzer on gratitude:
Deep gratitude. A feeling to be admired and coveted. It’s the foundation of a thankful attitude and springboards us into great joy in life. It’s present in the wonders of nature and the comfort of daily routine. There’s evidence of gratitude all around us if we have the wherewithal to look. And when we purpose to do so, we find it in our words and deeds to be shared with those around us.
A couple of passages in Scripture from the Message version talk about deep gratitude. I think they’re relevant for the people in our lives and other blessings for which we are thankful. Allow me to share them with you:
“I’m speaking to you out of deep gratitude for all that God has given me, and especially as I have responsibilities in relation to you. Living then, as every one of you does, in pure grace, it’s important that you not misinterpret yourselves as people who are bringing this goodness to God. No, God brings it all to you.” Romans 12:3
“Carrying out this social relief work involves far more than helping meet the bare needs of poor Christians. It also produces abundant and bountiful thanksgivings to God. This relief offering is a prod to live at your very best, showing your gratitude to God by being openly obedient to the plain meaning of the Message of Christ. You show your gratitude through your generous offerings to your needy brothers and sisters, and really toward everyone. Meanwhile, moved by the extravagance of God in your lives, they’ll respond by praying for you in passionate intercession for whatever you need. Thank God for this gift, his gift. No language can praise it enough!” 2 Corinthians 9:12-15
Again, let’s take just a moment to think of the people who have positively influenced our lives. Maybe there was a person who helped us see the greatness inside or a teacher who taught us to pursue our dreams until we accomplished them. Was there a pastor or leader who inspired confidence and assisted us when we most needed to be brave? Or was it someone near and dear to us, a friend, a parent, another family member, a child whose determination to embrace life was inspirational? Maybe that person still inspires, or perhaps they’ve left this world for an eternal life without suffering, yet we continue to be inspired by the example set.
As we sit down to enjoy meals together this week, let’s remember to continue to rekindle sparks of deep gratitude in one another. Let’s be as open to giving as we are to receiving. And let’s remember to extend grace and mercy to those who need a little more of our love and patience. Remember, it only takes a spark to get the flame going!
Happy Thanksgiving to you and those important to you!
Be Well & Be Blessed!
Lucinda
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