XCIV
Once Again, Gratitude
(6/29)
We give thanks to you, O God; we give thanks, your name is near. (Psalm 75:1)
“Your name is near.” Gratitude comes from being aware of the Giver and the gifts. Gratitude comes from recognizing our many blessings, most of which the result of the grace of interdependence, most of which we have not earned or created. Gratitude, the Psalmist believes, comes from keeping God’s name near, that is always at the edge of your consciousness, at the periphery of your vision.
For the Psalmist to invoke God’s name gives us comfort, courage, and power. Invoking God’s name reminds us of our need for God and inspires us to share our bounty with others. You can place God’s name near by stopping to pray regularly throughout the day. The apostle Paul counsels, “pray without ceasing.” Turning and returning to God throughout the day, keeping open to God’s presence throughout the day.
In praying without ceasing, invoking the name of God, we discover that we have everything we need to respond to today’s challenges. In being thankful, we enhance our connection with God and discover we are never alone.
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Help me to pray without ceasing, O God. Let me awaken to wisdom sufficient for each day. In gratitude, let me discover that I am never alone. Amen.
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