A Little Bit of Gratitude

About two weeks ago I was speaking with an experienced priest who has served for over 50 years. I expressed some of my woes. Some of my frustrations are related to the coronavirus and how polarized opinions are about the right way forward. Also it seems that expectations are extremely high. The Lord seems rather demanding and entrusts me with more than I want.

As I was moaning and belly-aching this priest said something that cut right through my heart. He said, “Look at all that He has done for you.” He listed off a couple things and concluded by saying, “Maybe a little bit of gratitude is due to God.” That simple retort has given me a lot to ponder as we approach Thanksgiving Day.

We often look at our own struggles, frustrations, disappointments, and challenges. When these thoughts consume us, we tend to look at the Lord less. We fail to have gratitude for His abundant love and mercy. God continues to enliven us with the gift of the Holy Spirit. His grace constantly sustains us, even in the most difficult years.

This year we should be more intentional than ever to thank God on Thanksgiving Day. I encourage everyone to set aside time to thank God and to lead by example. Here are a couple ways you can individually or as a family thank God:

– Make a list of His Blessings

– Go to Mass on Thanksgiving Day (8:00am at St. Joseph and 9:00am at IC)

– Take 10 minutes during your Thanksgiving gathering to offer up prayers of gratitude

– Thank someone either with a letter or a phone call

2020 has been a stressful year in so many ways, however we can’t take our sights off God. He continues to work in our midst.

I have a lot of reasons to be grateful. The list begins with the people in my life, especially those that I get to work with day in and day out. I am grateful to our staff and their dedication to the Lord. Their ability to figure how to move forward in the midst of changing times, has been superb.

On top of that we have so many incredible parishioners who serve the Lord in ways large and small. There are people who serve on committees, catechize the youth, lead small groups, clean the Churches, serve the poor and organize events. It is a blessing to be surrounded by so many faithful people.

Finally I am supremely grateful for your patience and ability to forgive me for my shortcomings. I realize that I have many pitfalls and I am humbled by the second and third chances you have given.

Despite the challenges, thank you for making 2020 a blessed year. Despite difficult circumstances, you continue to allow the Lord to work in your life.
May God be praised in all that we do!

Sincerely in Christ,
Fr. Sean Wilson