“…for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.” – Philippians 4:11-12
My daughters have a very active schedule. School, homework, dance, softball, track and church keep them very busy. My wife and I spend time coordinating our calendars so that we can get them to each practice, game, recital and youth group event on time. It takes some effort, no doubt.
At the end of each day my girls are tired. They are usually ready to get in the car, eat dinner and sleep. But before we ever get back in the car we always ask them, “Did you tell your coach or teacher thank you?” Often, they will say thank you before we ask, but a gentle reminder is sometimes needed.
We want our children to have a grateful attitude in all that they do. It is not always easy. Sometimes practices are hard and games don’t have the outcome that you desire. Even when some things don’t turn out the way we had envisioned they would, there are still things to be grateful for in every situation of our lives.
Expressing our gratitude is a habit. Like any good habit, it takes time to develop this action as a natural routine in our lives. Each day, at the end of one of our girl’s events we remind them to practice gratitude. It is a life-long habit that we want them to develop. It is just as important as good grades, a good batting average or a strong performance on the stage.
How are you practicing your gratitude? Even as adults we need to be intentional about developing our good habits. This year St. Luke’s is encouraging everyone to start their prayers by lifting to God three things you are grateful for that day. This practice is part of our Year of Gratitude. When we express our gratitude, it reminds us of the blessings we have, even amid our busy lives that demand so much from each of us. I hope today you will continue to develop your habit of gratitude.
Rev. Keith King, Online Campus Pastor
