A Life of Thankfulness
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Gratitude helps us shift our focus from our troubles to the blessings God has provided. Jeff Cavins reflects on the story of Jesus cleansing the ten lepers from Luke 17 and the profound lesson it teaches us about gratitude. Jeff offers us ten ways to cultivate a grateful heart, such as keeping a record of God's faithfulness, looking for blessings in the mundane, and participating fully in the Eucharist.
Snippet from the Show
Gratitude doesn't change God, but it will change you.
Jesus Cleanses the Ten Lepers
Luke 17:11-19
"On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samar′ia and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices and said, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then said Jesus, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”
The Catechism and Scripture on Praise & Thanksgiving
"The whole community thus joins in the unending praise that the Church in heaven, the angels and all the saints, sing to the
thrice-holy God."- CCC 1352
"The Eucharist is both Thanksgiving and Praise to the Father."- CCC 1358
Every joy and suffering, every event and need can become the matter for thanksgiving which, sharing in that of Christ, should fill one’s whole life: “Give thanks in all circumstances” (1Thess 5:18). - CCC 2648
"for the rendering of this service not only supplies the wants of the saints but also overflows in many thanksgivings to God." - 2 Cor. 9:12
Respect for parents (filial piety) derives from gratitude toward those who, by the gift of life, their love and their work, have brought their children into the world and enabled them to grow in stature, wisdom, and grace. "With all your heart honor your father, and do not forget the birth pangs of your mother. Remember that through your parents you were born; what can you give back to them that equals their gift to you?"- CCC 2215
"The fourth commandment reminds grown children of their responsibilities toward their parents. As much as they can, they must give them material and moral support in old age and in times of illness, loneliness, or distress. Jesus recalls this duty of gratitude." - CCC 2218
"For Christians a special gratitude is due to those from whom they have received the gift of faith, the grace of Baptism, and life in the Church. These may include parents, grandparents, other members of the family, pastors, catechists, and other teachers or friends. "I am reminded of your sincere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your grandmother Lois and your mother Eunice and now, I am sure, dwells in you."- CCC 2220
GK Chesterton on Gratitude
“The secret to happiness is gratitude.”
Ten Ways to Cultivate a Heart of Gratitude
- Enthrone God upon your praises (Psalm 22:3)
- Put on the garment of praise instead of the spirit of despair or heaviness (Isaiah 61:3)
- Express praise and thanksgiving
- Identify something in each hour that you can thank God for
- Set aside time daily to express thanks to God.
- Keep a record of God’s faithfulness to you.
- Thank God in times of worry and anxiety.
- Show gratitude and thankfulness toward others. Think of 3 people you could write a note of thanks to.
- Look for the blessings in the mundane.
- Fully participate in the great offering of thanksgiving- the Mass