Being Grateful

If you read the headlines much, COVID-19 is probably going to be found somewhere in what you read or watch fairly quickly. It’s a virus that has consumed nearly every conversation. While there are many feelings being expressed about the steps the world has taken to protect us, at the end of the day, the inconveniences of it all can cause us to become more frustrated.

The exact number of those who have had the virus, those who have died from it, and those who have recovered, may be a little challenging to find. However, one thing that might be helpful to reflect on is that more recover than not. More people don’t even get it than do.

Another way to say it is, “be grateful for your health.” If you get out amongst people much (perhaps before Corona), you meet all kinds of folks: some better off than you, some not; some prettier than you, some not; some smarter than you, some not.

When you’re in a situation you don’t want to be in, remember it nearly always “could be worse.” Most likely, I’m writing to believers. And as believers, you can see how God has outlined a plan that can, and has, rescued us from a lot of awful things in this life. It’s our job to share this “good news.”

There were 10 lepers we read about in Luke 17 that had been ostracized from their families; they’d been regarded as rejects of society, yet they recognized what turning to Jesus was their only hope. What Jesus prescribed for them to do was to “go show yourself to the priest" and follow the law given by Moses.

Focusing on Jesus--and His way of living--isn’t limited only to those with diseases. His way of life is exactly what we need to promote in our hurting communities. Consider this passage from Romans 12:9-18 as a good pattern for us to follow. “Love must be sincere. Hate what is evil; cling to what is good. Be devoted to one another in love. Honor one another above yourselves. Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord. Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer. Share with the Lord’s people who are in need. Practice hospitality. Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse. Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. Live in harmony with one another. Do not be proud but be willing to associate with people of low position. Do not be conceited. Do not repay anyone evil for evil. Be careful to do what is right in the eyes of everyone. If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”

These actions aren’t easy, but they help people be grateful for the blessings they enjoy and even help them through the difficulties they don’t enjoy. Be a blessing!