Expressing Gratitude

Dear St. John’s,

I remember some time ago a homeless person was soliciting for charity to those passing by on the street. I embarrassingly gave him a couple of coins and apologetically said, “Sorry man, that’s all I got.”

“Hey, hey…” he earnestly replied with a smile, “every little bit counts!” 

You would have thought I gave him some great reward and not just pocket change.

That moment has stayed with me, even years later. It was a life-lesson in being grateful.

In this week’s Gospel reading (Luke 11:17-19) Jesus heals ten lepers, while on his way to Jerusalem. They all leave ecstatic from the miracle they received, but one of them, a Samaritan, returns and falls at Jesus’s feet to thank him, to which Jesus responds, “Were not ten made clean? But the other nine, where are they? Was none of them found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” It is the person who is most unlikely to show gratitude who actually does.

As Americans we are among the wealthiest people on the planet; however, how truly grateful are we?

Often times we are siloed away from those who are in a different class or socio-economic culture than our own, so it’s easy to become oblivious to the suffering of others. I believe this is the core (generally speaking) of America’s insensitivity toward migrants. We really don’t know who these people are and why they risk their life to come into the United States. Meanwhile we take for granted the many necessities (running water, vaccines) and luxuries (internet, Uber) of life.

Yes, we can find moments of appreciation in prayer or quiet reflection, but I think one of the best ways to show gratitude is by helping out those who are less fortunate. Whether its volunteering or giving to someone in need (ideally in person), it connects us with others and with God. So, I encourage you to be on the lookout for opportunities to bless others, out of the abundance of which God has blessed us.

In Christ,

Anthony+