Gratitude Is Powerful

– Ponderings:

This morning, the wind is howling. I can hear and even feel it inside the house, and so can my nervous dogs. That’s one way of saying that I’m trying to type with two dogs sitting on my lap. Needless to say, I’ve had several typos and haven’t gotten to the meditation part yet!

I was thinking about the theologically rich Book of Romans this morning and opened it to re-read the Apostle Paul’s opening words. Then I glanced quickly at several of his other letters to confirm the pattern. Paul’s letters to various churches in our New Testament were written for numerous reasons: to encourage, to explain basic tenets of the faith, and, quite often, to correct things that were going wrong. But before Paul gets to the core of what he has to say, he opens with these words: “First, I give thanks for you.” Even when what follows will be critical and difficult to hear, Paul begins by expressing his gratitude for them.

His heart is overflowing with appreciation for these early believers because even as they struggle to get it right, they’re making an impact. Their faith, while not perfect, is a testimony that glorifies God.

Paul’s words of thanks remind us that gratitude is a powerful way to begin our day even when – or especially when – things aren’t perfect. It shifts our focus away from our challenges and toward God’s faithfulness and goodness. It reminds us that we are part of a bigger story—the story of God at work in the world.

These words also teach us to celebrate the faith of others, even when we aren’t directly connected to their story. Paul knew some of the people in the churches to which he was writing, but many of them he had never met. Our prayers should be filled with thanksgiving for how God is at work, even in places we’ve never been and among people we’ve never met.

How can the faith stories of people you’ve never met inspire you? Perhaps you have a favorite author whose words have deepened your faith or a hymn-writer whose lyrics led you to a deeper understanding of God’s love for you. This morning, I invite you to take a couple of minutes to give thanks for the faith of others whose faithfulness has made a difference in your life. Not a bad way to start a windy day, don’t you think?

Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for the faithful witnesses you have placed in my life. Thank you for others who have shown me what it means to walk with you. Let their light continue to shine brightly for others. Help me to live out my faith in a way that honors you and encourages others. In Jesus’ name. Amen.