Grateful Hearts Make A Difference

“How Are You?” What if instead of the conventional responses of, “good”, “well” or “fighting fit”, we were to respond with, “grateful”, and mean it. Each of us has a lot to be grateful for. We live in a great place in a great country and we are part of a vibrant learning community. When we start from the perspective of what we are grateful for in our places of living, in our personal relationships and in our work and community, we are reminded of the abundance that we have in our lives. When we appreciate or give thanks for what we have, the world slows down and we are more open to be fully present to the needs of others. We become more hope filled and optimistic. There is greater space for generosity.

In the Bible, we read of the story of the 10 lepers who were cured by Jesus. Only one returned to say thank you. In our daily lives pausing to say thank you can shift our focus to the bigger picture. It is a small act of service that can promote deep joy. Saying thank you to God at the start and end of each day helps us to keep perspective on all that is good. It reminds us to be outward looking in how we might use our gifts to improve the lives of others.

(Adapted from Pastor Ray Morris sermon at St Mark's at Pacific, 9/10/16)