We live in times of entitlement, when the list of what we claim to be ours by right seems to grow longer by the day. That leaves little space for being grateful. But how can one be happy without being grateful? All were cured, but only one returned to thank Jesus. Your faith has saved you, Jesus tells the Samaritan.
May we ask for the grace of an open and grateful heart, dwelling in gratitude before God on His many gifts to each of us, or for His gifts in areas of our lives: faith, family, friends, health. Gratitude oils the wheels of life.
What have we taken for granted this day, for which we can now be grateful? The ten ordinary miracles of our lives: health, senses, family, love, friendship, meaning, nature, beauty, music, laughter. May we thank God daily for them. Are there other little miracles we would add?
May our gratitude not grow cold. Give thanks for your blessings with praises to God for his love, grace, and faithfulness!
Adapted from excerpts in
https://www.sacredspace.ie/scripture/luke-1711-19-1#
19th SUNDAY AFTER PENTECOST
The Jubilant Voices and Cherub Choir will lead us in the ministry of music this Sunday for our worship celebration. In HIS Steps Liturgical Dance Ministry will share Our Interim Senior Pastor, Rev. Paul A. Hill, will be our preacher.
Come, Lord, stir us up and call us back.
Kindle and seize us.
Be our fire and our sweetness.
Let us love. Let us run.”
—Augustine of Hippo
The E-Ringer is the electronic edition of the BellRinger, Holman UMC's Church Newsletter. It is a weekly publication. For questions regarding the E-Ringer e-mail us at holman@holmanumc.com.
