By Peter Kennedy
“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:1
BRENNAN Manning was an American author, a Roman Catholic priest who left the priesthood, and a public speaker. He is best known for his bestselling book “The Ragamuffin Gospel”.
He led spiritual retreats for people of all ages and backgrounds and traveled extensively in the U.S. and abroad to share the good news of the unconditional love of God.
On the subject of gratitude, Brennan wrote: “I believe that the real difference in the American church is not between conservatives and liberals, fundamentalists and charismatics, or Republicans and Democrats. The real difference is between the aware and the unaware.
“When somebody is aware of the love that the Father has for Jesus, that person is spontaneously grateful. Cries of thankfulness become the dominant characteristic of the interior life, and the byproduct of gratitude is joy. We’re not joyful and then become grateful—we’re grateful, and that makes us joyful.”
Let this day be the beginning of a full, joyful life. Today in prayer, give thanks to the Lord for He is good.
“Remember God’s bounty in the year. String the pearls of His favor. Hide the dark parts, except so far as they are breaking out in light! Give this one day to thanks, to joy, to gratitude!” – Henry Ward Beecher
God’s Word: “Give thanks to the God of heaven. His love endures forever.” – Psalm 136:26.
