Gratitude

Have you ever been so moved that you wanted to write a song? This prayer of Hannah’s sings God’s praises in a way that makes me think of a work of art or a beautiful piece of music. This is the symphony of joy following the deep lament of yesterday’s reading.

Poetry, art and music are all tools that have been used by worshippers for centuries to express their gratitude to God. Perhaps you feel like you’re not creative enough to pen a tune, but there are other powerful, everyday tools we can use to practice the kind of gratitude that Hannah shows us.

Recently, I began the practice of writing down three things I’m grateful for each day. Some days are harder than others, but the practice of gratitude is a powerful one. Today, as you begin or end your day, take a moment to jot down some of those things for yourself. Our gratitude journal may not be as ardent as Hannah’s prayer, but the practice of returning to gratitude regularly is one that helps re-shape our thought patterns and encourages us to look for things that make us happy. Soon enough we may find ourselves pulling out the old guitar to strum a tune worthy of our joy.

For life and breath and all the goodness in our lives, we are so grateful, Lord. Amen. — AB

Contributed by Gratitude

Have you ever been so moved that you wanted to write a song? This prayer of Hannah's sings God's praises in a way that makes me think of a work of art or a beautiful piece of music. This is the symphony of joy following the deep lament of yesterday's reading. Poetry, art and music are all tools that have been used by worshippers for centuries to express their gratitude to God. Perhaps you feel like you're not creative enough to pen a tune, but there are other powerful, everyday tools we can use to practice the kind of gratitude that Hannah shows us. Recently, I began the practice of writing down three things I'm grateful for each day. Some days are harder than others, but the practice of gratitude is a powerful one. Today, as you begin or end your day, take a moment to jot down some of those things for yourself. Our gratitude journal may not be as ardent as Hannah's prayer, but the practice of returning to gratitude regularly is one that helps re-shape our thought patterns and encourages us to look for things that make us happy. Soon enough we may find ourselves pulling out the old guitar to strum a tune worthy of our joy.
Eternity for Today