A Thankful Heart – November 18, 2001
Thanksgiving is a coupling of two universal principles: thanks and giving. When the two work together, lives are changed for the better. The Apostle Paul said: “In everything give thanks, for this is the will of God.”1 Giving thanks is an expression of a heart full of gratitude, a heart full of love. The Lord, entering a village, encountered ten lepers who “lifted up their voices and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” And they were cleansed. “And one of them, when he saw that he was healed . . . turned back, . . . giving him thanks.”2 Turned back—there is a message in his action. One of ten stopped to show gratitude. How often do we?
While “thank you” may conclude grand events, it’s most often a still, small voice in the whirlwind of daily living. How wonderful it is to give thanks to God for a glorious sunset! Or just another day. Give thanks to a kind neighbor. A helpful clerk. A smiling child offering a crumbling cookie. A patient spouse.
A thankful heart recognizes greatness. And goodness. It’s a partner to humility, and a close friend of forgiveness, peace, respect, and love. Even in moments of sorrow, danger, failure, or frustration, we can give thanks for what we have and what we’re learning. Such an attitude lifts others, and prompts us to see the hand of God in our lives.
A giving heart is a simple gift. It asks that we reach inside and give of ourselves. Appreciation acknowledges our connection one to another; “thank you” honors that bond. It costs nothing but time and attention, yet such a thoughtful gesture may make someone’s day!
Gratitude—it’s a measure of the heart. At this season, and always, may ours be full.
Program #3770
1. I. Thessalonians 5:18.
2. Luke 17:12-16.