I have come to believe that gratitude is a treatable heart condition that directly impacts our vision. What we feel in our hearts can change what we see with our eyes.
One of my favorite quotes is this: "Remember that everyone you meet has a story that would break your heart." Do we see others with hearts that allow us grace, because we know each one has suffered pain, shame, loss, disappointment or broken dreams?
It is so easy to become frustrated, irritated and disengaged from "our neighbors". Loving our pets is easy. Loving people is hard.
Still, the clear instruction in multiple gospels is to "Love your God" and "Love your neighbors... all of them." It is a heart condition that impacts our soul vision. It is easy to obsess over what isn't right... or fair... or as it should be. We are called to go... to love, to do and to be.
"Being" can be hard. Be salt. Be light. Do what is right.
I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” -John 16:33
The world is full of trials and tribulations. Choosing to be content in our circumstance is a powerful choice. We have a responsibility to change what we can. We need to be a part of the solution and not the problem ( a salute to fair trade businesses and the consumers who shop them). We can claim a piece of His peace and share it.
The media inundates us with a flood of messages and images about more... more... more. More stuff to fill our homes, more drugs to make us feel better... and more troubles we didn't even know we had until we see there is a new problem solving product.
Those who have cleaned out a closest this season know there is freedom of less.
Those who have managed to lose a few pounds instead of gaining know the joy in being less.
Those who have experienced the joy of giving know it is sweeter than recieving.
Those who find "peace in me"... from the source...always have a reason to smile.
Those who choose heartfelt and soul deep gratitude for the "enough" they are granted know peace.
"Lord... help us to be content, full of gratitude and blessed by our daily bread from your hand. Grant us joy in sharing it. Fill us with a sense of awe and wonder for each day that we have enough and some to share. Thank your for being present and being our portion. You are so much more than enough." -Amen
Today, I am grateful for a treatable heart condition.
No comments:
Post a Comment