Weekly Virtue: Gratitude

As we enter the week of Thanksgiving, I found it appropriate that the virtue of the week be Gratitude. Gratitude is defined as a feeling of appreciation or thanks. Let us think about all that we appreciate as we enter the week. So often we go through our days, weeks, years, lives and take so many of the little things for granted. Let us stop this week and acknowledge the little things and give thanks.

The Gospel reading today spoke of Christ the King. What kind of king is Jesus? As I listened to the gospel of Luke speaking of Jesus on the cross. It spoke of the good thief speaking to Jesus and asking to be remembered. Jesus promised the good thief that he would be remembered in paradise. The good thief is admitting to Jesus while they are all on the cross that he is worthy of his sentence. He is a sinner and deserves the death that he has been sentenced to, but at the same time he is also telling Jesus that he knows Jesus is underserving. He knows Jesus has done no wrong. And through these simple words he is admitting to Jesus his belief in Him and therefore has become saved.

Back to the question what kind of king is Jesus? Jesus is exactly the kind of king I want to follow, the kind I want to worship, the kind I am grateful for. He is self sacrificing, and humbling and understanding. He knows we are all sinners and loves us still. As we enter this week of Thanksgiving and surround ourselves with family and friends let us not forget our King. Let us first thank Him and show Him our gratitude for all He has given.

May you have a blessed Thanksgiving holiday full of family, friends, food and Christ.