A Moment of Gratitude (12/19/2024)

Last evening, I was asked to come early to the parish center to set up for a social. I was told there would be teen volunteers to help. When I arrived, I was amazed at the turn out of teens (10 of them) who gave their time on a busy school day to help an old lady set up for a social. They were joyful, talkative, cooperative, just all round enjoyable.

After we set up, these same teens joined me and others for an hour and 15 minutes of faith formation. To the person, these young people are exceptional. We spent time last evening talking about our gifts and discerning how to use them in service to our LORD and others. As I watched them work in small group, affirming one another, cooperating with the Spirit, seeking to better understand their role in the LORD’s divine design, I was struck by what a gift these young people are.

After class, I helped clean up then headed home. On the way, I came to the town square, all lit up for Christmas. And I was drawn to it. I parked my car, got out, and walked to the center Christmas tree. Looking around me, I was struck by the beauty and the way the lights made me feel. They magnified my joy and hope. And I found myself standing alone next to the tree, lifting up a prayer of gratitude for the privilege of working with those young people and for the gift of hope that time had given to me. I gave thanks for the city workers who so lovingly and diligently strung those lights in the square. God is good – all the time.

During this season when things can be so hectic, I pray that we all have time to take in fully the blessings of the moments and the encounters and the season. I pray that we can see the gifts of the individuals that surround us as clearly as we can see the wrapped gifts under the tree. I pray that we can recognize “Emmanuel – God is with us” and stop to give gratitude.

Until tomorrow, let us all love well.