In Thanksgiving

Thank you!
Everything in me says “Thank you!”
I kneel in worship facing your holy temple and say it again:
“Thank you!”
Thank you for your love, thank you for your faithfulness;
Most holy is your name, most holy is your Word.
The moment I called out, you stepped in; you made my life large with strength.
When they hear what you have to say, God, all earth’s rulers will say “Thank you.”
They’ll sing of what you’ve done: “How great the glory of God!”
And here’s why: you, God, though mighty care for the lowly;
you humble the proud and champion those in need.
When I walk into the thick of trouble, keep me alive in the angry turmoil.
Finish what you started in me, God;
I know that you will fulfill your purpose for me.
Your love, O God, is eternal:
Everything in me says “Thank you!”

Psalm 138 as translated by Eugene H. Peterson in  The Message (alt.)

Being sure that my face remained very close to the microphone so that the words of scripture would be heard through the church, I read Psalm 138. I felt that I was reading my own words rather than those of someone living two or three millennia ago. I figure that this shows that gratitude is deeply rooted in the human psyche.

As our minister pointed out, Robert Emmons and Michael McCullough showed that those who acknowledge gratitude experience higher levels of optimism, both physical and mental well-being, a healthier lifestyle, and are more likely to offer help and emotional support to others. An “attitude of gratitude” -- whether for family, pets, direction or dessert -- really makes a difference in our lives as well as the lives of those around us.

Thank goodness there is at least one day a year when we take stock of that for which we are thankful as well as that for which we ask for help.

Happy Thanksgiving!