Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the God of gods. His love endures forever. Give thanks to the Lord of lords: His love endures forever. Psalm 136:1‑3

Recently, I visited my 98‑year‑old mom, post hip surgery. She was struggling physically to get in and out of bed and hurting from some very painful bed sores. Adding to those complications was her diminished vision caused by glaucoma a few years earlier.

She had much to complain about. But when I was with her, she asked me to get a piece of paper. She wanted me to help her write down all the things for which she was grateful. So I sat beside her in bed and started to write. Her list began with caregivers, a good mind, great health care, a new hip, clean surroundings, and then went on and on.

St. Augustine said, “A Christian should be an ‘Alleluia’ from head to toe.” During this crazy year, I have been more of a complaining Christian and not an “Alleluia” one. I want to live with a grateful heart, aware of God’s work in my life and the abundance that surrounds me: creation, family, friends, and work. I can live gratefully, not because everything goes perfectly but because God is present with me.

Even at my age, my mom is still teaching me. May her grateful spirit inspire you to look around and make a list of all that God has done in your life today.

For Reflection

What are three things that you are most grateful for in 2020? Today?

How could you record your grateful list? By snapping a picture on your phone? By making notes on your phone? By keeping a notebook in your car?

Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for today. We have so much for which to be grateful: the very breath that we take, Your presence with us, a new day in Your incredible creation, and Your love that endures today and forever. Amen.