“Dear brothers and sisters,” he said, “in our prayer we should look more often at how, in the events of our own lives, the Lord has protected, guided and helped us, and we should praise him for all he has done and does for us. We should be more attentive to the good things the Lord gives to us.”
The Pontiff noted how “we are always attentive to problems and to difficulties,” but there is almost an unwillingness “to perceive that there are beautiful things that come from the Lord.”
Attention to the good, “which becomes gratitude,” he said, “is very important for us; it creates in us a memory for the good and it helps us also in times of darkness.”
Such wise and wonderful comments from a gentle and peaceful leader. Perhaps one day we will act to answer Christ’s request “that they may all be one” and enjoy the fruit of such a relationship.
Thanks Kendall for posting this. A wonderful meditation. I sense the words may be timely for all y’all in South Carolina these days.
[blockquote]”It is important not to lose the memory of God’s presence in our lives,” he said, “this profound joy that God has entered into our lives, thus freeing us: It is gratitude for the discovery of Jesus Christ, who has come among us. And this gratitude is transformed into hope; it is a star of hope that gives us trust; it is light, since the very pains of sowing are the beginning of new life, of the great and definitive joy of God.”[/blockquote]
May you indeed be strengthened in joy daily as you call to mind the Lord’s presence and promises and past goodness to you. May He stir up hope in your hearts, enabling you to continue to sow His Word boldly, so that you will continue to reap a bountiful harvest and rejoice again with singing!