40 Days of Gratitude

02-19-2023Weekly ReflectionFr. Emmanuel I. Ihemedu

Dear Church Family,

Dietrich Bonhoeffer once said, “In ordinary life, we hardly realize that we receive a great deal more than we give and that it is only with gratitude that life becomes rich.” And I agree.

To connect more deeply with God during this Lent, we as a parish will practice gratitude for the 40 days of Lent. Reflecting on how much God has blessed us is one way to deepen our relationship with God.

The past few years have been tough for many of us, with so many uncertainties. However, Lent allows us to pause and try to make sense of all our trials and the messiness of life. Trying to find something to be grateful for in the midst of messy life helps us dig into the dark places so we can discover the infinite power of our light.

Therefore, I ask that all my parishioners join me in a 40-day campaign of gratitude. That means that every day of these 40 days of Lent, we will spend time reflecting on the things that make life worthwhile. We will notice the blessings and favors surrounding us that we overlook because of our busy schedules. We will give thanks for the things we have taken for granted and let go of those values that are not in our best interest. I encourage everyone to keep a journal of this campaign for gratitude.

Let us make this lent count by taking the ride with Jesus to Easter and allowing him to reveal new life, opportunities, and things to be thankful for.

Have a faith-filled Lent!