Gratitude Comes From Reflection

In June of 2023, my only child Brayden graduated high school. Like any parent, we celebrated this milestone event. We had family come in from out of town, attended the pomp and circumstance ceremony, and shared a large feast. 

This significant life event caused all three of us to stop and reflect. We talked about when Brayden was growing up, the good and the challenging and we shared about our graduation memories and what life was like for us at 18. 

I see the importance of reflection as I follow the way of Jesus. I see the man my son is now and I marvel at God’s goodness. In all those times of struggle, I see now the faithfulness of God, the beautiful masterpiece that he was painting in Brayden. 

The 10 lepers were living a life of pain and isolation. They were in the midst of a hard and challenging season of their life. Then Jesus healed all 10 of them when they cried out to him. Jesus showed up and they received wholeness, physically and spiritually.

But only one returned to express gratitude. How many times have I been the other 9, thankful for what God has given me but forgetting to actually say it to him? My practice of reflection reminds me to look back over my life in pieces, to thank God for his goodness, kindness, mercy, and healing that he has extended. 

Dear God, I am grateful for the daily provisions, like my home and food, and the big milestones. Please forgive me for moving so quickly from the miracles you provide each day without expressing gratitude. In Jesus’ name, Amen