Happy Thanksgiving

In July, 1939, Lou Gerhig stood in front of thousands at Yankee Stadium and delivered a speech that showed the humble spirit and gratitude he possessed. This speech was delivered, shortly after he was diagnosed with ALS. And yet, he still considered himself the luckiest man alive as he showed gratitude to all those around him ~ his fans, his friends, and his family. Pastor Ian Trigg in his sermon this weekend spoke about gratitude. His sermon was entitled, "The Other Nine" and the focus of the sermon was the story from Luke 17:11-19. This story is about Jesus healing the ten men with leprosy. Only one man, the Samaritan, came back and praised God in a loud voice, throwing himself at Jesus' feet and showing his gratitude. The question remains, what happened to the other nine? Why did they not come back and show their gratitude?
It was a wonderful sermon and one that got me reflecting more on my life. You may have noticed that I have changed the look of my blog and the title is also a little different. A bit of a makeover. I have always tried to live my life showing gratitude and remembering to give thanks but want to be more intentional about this. I have changed the title of the blog from Life of Gratitude to A Life Full of Gratitude ~ A Heart Full of Gratitude. I felt after the sermon that this would be more appropriate and would really reflect what I am trying to accomplish in my life. To choose to be grateful each and everyday. To take nothing for granted. To be surprised by blessings. To be amazed at the wonder of life. To not let the sacred become ordinary. To always remember the plan Jesus has for us ~ His plan ~ His journey for our life. I don't want to be like the other nine but choose to live my life more like the one, the one who showed gratitude. A fitting sermon for thanksgiving but also important for every day of the year.
I am thankful for so much and really feel blessed with a life full of gratitude and a heart full of gratitude. I am thankful for:
-my relationship with Christ - His love and His grace.
-my husband.
-Jaret and recently his excitment about learning how to "read." He loves reading each day so that he can colour the pumpkins in on his reading calendar. He made a book at school called "Falling Leaves." He is so proud of reading it, "A red leaf fell. A yellow leaf fell..."
-Kirra and her giggles, her smile, her little arms as they hold on to my neck at night not wanting me to leave her. Even her obsession for everything Dora lately.
-loved ones - near and far who I enjoy spending time with every chance I get - amazing family and friends.
-our church community.
-teaching Grade 5 half time.
-being a stylist with Stella & Dot and the wonderful women I have met through the venture.
-my health.
-our home.
And the list could go on and on...I am truly blessed and blessed by each of you. Thank you for being a part of my life. Happy Thanksgiving Everyone!