(HOPEFEST 2014)

At the risk of sounding like a broken record, I would like to repeat myself on this…

Developing gratitude will have a positive impact on every other area of your life.  And it turns out, God’s plan for you is that you will BECOME a person of gratitude:

…give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.        1 Thessalonians 5:18

We launched a series on “Gratitude” last weekend.  And as a practical way of developing this marvelous quality, I suggested a simple exercise.  Before you begin every meal, take a moment to thank God for his enduring love for you.

As we discussed last weekend, it could be that he notices you, or that he chose you, or that he delights in you, or that he values you. ALL OF THESE are expressions of love that we readily understand.  And ALL OF THEM are true of how God our heavenly Father loves us.

So if I could be allowed to repeat myself, would you please consider making this a habit over the next two weeks?  Before you start lunch today (or dinner, if you’re reading this later), simply pause and pray something like this:

• “God, thank you for noticing me…I realize that you love me.” OR
• “God, thank you for choosing me to be your child…you did this out of love.” OR
• “God, thank you for delighting in me despite my messiness and brokenness…only love does that.” OR
• “God, thank you for valuing me enough to send your Son to take my place…the greatest love the world has ever known.”

For God so love the world that he gave his one and only Son that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.  John 3:16

Every person…every meal…every day…  Then watch and see what real gratitude does to every part of your life.

-Pastor Mark

P.S. Speaking of gratitude, I am deeply grateful to the many, many volunteers who made last Saturday’s HOPEFEST an overwhelming success!  Thank you for your time, your teamwork, your ideas, and your expertise.  Because of you, we truly ignited HOPE in our community!