I have suggested two gifts for Christmas that will not cost you any money, “The Gift of Praise” and “The Gift of Consideration or Thoughtfulness.” Today let me suggest that you add to your gift list “The Gift of Gratitude.” That is something we have to teach our children. Unless we teach them to express thanks, they grow up “expecting” things rather than “appreciating” them. It’s been said the sweetest thing anyone can hear is the sound of their own name. I suggest that the second sweetest thing one can hear are would be the words “Thank you.” “The Gift of Gratitude” is very similar to “The Gift of Consideration.” Both are all about doing something for the other person. But just as flattery is meaningless, parroting the words thank you means nothing unless your heart is in it. This special “Gift of Gratitude” that you can share this Christmas should go beyond thanking someone for holding the door for you. Slow down and look around you at those closest to you. These may be co-workers, family members or neighbors. These are people you depend upon on a daily or weekly basis. They share life with you. We so often take these very people for granted. We may stop saying “thank you” to them. But we should not. Slow down and reflect upon people that have been the most influential in your life. There are family members, teachers, pastors, professors, neighbors, fellow church members and others who have helped mold your life into the person you are today. Some of them have been quiet examples to you. They may not even know you admire them. Fine some words to wrap around your “Gift of Gratitude.” Let someone know how grateful you are for their love and help. The words do not have to be elaborate. Gratitude is often best expressed by simply saying “Thank you for what you have done to encourage or help me.” You can decorate your “Gift of Gratitude” by writing a note expressing your thanks. Everyone loves to get mail. Perhaps you’ve been thinking about writing a note. Do it today. The Apostle Paul exhorted us to “BE THANKFUL IN ALL CIRCUMSTANCES, FOR THIS IS GOD’S WILL FOR YOU WHO BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18 NLT) The “Gift of Gratitude” does not have to be held until Christmas Day. It loses its vitality when placed on a shelf. Pass it out today.
Posted on: Wed, 17 Dec 2014 10:18:13 +0000
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