“Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?’” Luke 17:17- 18
“Gratitude recognizes that a gift has been given, a favor has been done by someone. There is a gift and a giver. But there is more. Gratitude also calls for a response to that gift. We thank the giver with an expression of appreciation — a handshake, a hug, a note. A gesture of gratitude completes the exchange, closes the circle, lets the love flow back to the giver.” — Don Postema, Space for God.
I needed to read that quote. It was an “ah-ha” moment for me — it made so much sense. Many gifts I have given in the past have left me with a sense of emptiness because I never heard back if the gift was appreciated or not. The circle was not closed — I didn’t feel love flow back from the recipient of my gift.
But there have also been so many times when I have not taken the time to thank the giver of a gift for me. Those who gave me a gift would have likewise felt empty because I didn’t take the time to let them know the gift was appreciated.
How often do we take all the blessings and gifts from the Lord for granted — we almost feel entitled to them. Far too many times.
You may relate to this thought. I encourage you to say this prayer with me.
Lord, thank You, for You are the giver of so many beautiful gifts. I thank You for them all. Enable me to remember to thank You and thank others when they give a gift of kindness. Cause me to express my gratitude. Let the circle of love close — let love flow back to the giver. Amen.
By Katherine Kehler
Used by Permission
Further Reading
• Thanksgiving for What God Has Done
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