It's important to give thanks for the blessings we receive in our lives.
By sincerely giving thanks it helps us recognize the blessings we have, but also helps us feel Gods love more, unlocking the doors of heaven.
When you walk with gratitude you do not walk with arrogance and conceit and egotism; you walk with the spirit of thanksgiving; and this will bless your life.
As Jesus traveled in the wilderness for 3 days, more than 4,000 people came with him, He took compassion on them, for they had not eaten for 3 days.
His disciples questioned him, they saw only what was lacking. And Jesus said, "how many loaves have you". They counted 7 loaves and a few little fishes.
Jesus took the 7 loaves and fishes, and gave thanks for what they had. And a miracle followed: they all ate and were filled. And they even had left overs. But again notice that Jesus gave thanks first.
We have all been guilty of focusing on what we lack instead on our blessings.
Regardless of our circumstances we each have much to be thankful for if we will but pause and contemplate our blessings.
A prayerful way of life is the key to possessing gratitude.
This is wonderful time to be on earth.
While there is much that wrong in the world today there are many things that are right and good:
Marriages that make it.
Parents who love their children and sacrifice for them.
Friends who care about us and help us.
Teachers who teach.
Our lives are blessed in countless ways. We can lift ourselves and others when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our heart an "attitude of gratitude".
Those things that provide deep and everlasting gratitude are the things that money cannot buy.
Our family, Gospel of Jesus, good friends, our health, our abilities, the love we receive from those around us.
Most human beings have an infinite capacity of taking things for granted. Let us not wait until its too late for us to express our gratitude to those we love.
A greatful heart comes through: expressing gratitude to our heaving father for his blessings and for those around us for all that they bring into our lives.
This requires conscious effort, until we have cultivated an attitude of gratitude.
In addition to all else that we are grateful for, may we ever reflect our gratitude for our lord and savior Jesus christ. His glorious gospel provies answers to lifes greatest questions: Where did we come from, why are we here, where do we go when we die?
The Gospel brings the light of divine truth. He taught us how to pray to live, how to die, his life is a legacy of love, the sick he healed, the downtrodden he lifted, the sinner he saved, and ultimately he stood alone. His compassionate words: "Forgive them for they know not what they they do"
He is our master, he is our Savior, He is the Son of God. He beckons, "Follow me". Let us follow his example by so doing we give to Him the divine gift of gratitude.
In the name of Jesus Christ, Amen.