[Pearls Episode 140: Preparing for Sunday.]
This Sunday’s readings revolve around the topic of gratitude.
The Gospel acclamation takes us to the heart of the matter with this from St. Paul, “In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1Thes 5:18)
In ALL circumstances, give thanks.
This is necessarily bound up with another passage from St. Paul, “We know that all things work for good for those who love God” (Rom 8:28)
The formula is pretty simple – we are grateful for good things, and God works all things for our good (if we love Him).
So, if we’re doing our part to give our life to God, He will turn all things to good, and so we give thanks in all circumstances.
Simple.
But … not always easy.
In this week’s Pearls of the Interior Life we look at overcoming three obstacles that get in the way of recognizing all things as good (starting with our squirrelly emotions…). Because once we recognize God’s goodness in all things, gratitude follows naturally.
Blessings on your journey with Christ
Steve and Karen Smith
Interior Life