The Importance of Gratitude
Susan Steel
Having read, re-read, and reflected upon Psalm 145, I find myself feeling completely uplifted and joyful. This psalm is truly a celebration of God’s power, love, and compassion. It reminds us of the importance of expressing our gratitude daily as well as the importance of sharing our experiences across generations.
Reading this psalm fills me with a sense of peace, reassurance, and joy. It’s a reminder that God is a constant and unwavering presence in my life. No matter what my challenges or triumphs may be, He is always right beside me to guide, comfort, strengthen, and uplift me. His love is constant; it doesn’t waver based on my circumstances. Knowing this brings a profound comfort to me. God’s presence in my life enables me to find the courage to face each day, the grace to let go of my worries, and the trust to accept His plan for my life, no matter where that may lead.
The psalm speaks of the glory of God’s kingdom, a splendor that is evident in the beauty of creation around us. For me, this sense of glory is especially evident in the Fall season, when nature is at its most vibrant. The trees, dressed in dazzling shades of red, orange, and gold, create a landscape that feels both timeless and fleeting, reminding me to pause and appreciate each moment. I’m always captivated by this transformation; no matter how many autumns I’ve seen. The natural cycle of change serves as a gentle reminder of life’s rhythms and the beauty of each season, echoing the endless creativity and love of God in all things.
The passage that truly jumps out at me is verse 4: “One generation shall praise your works to another…” It’s our responsibility to teach our children about God’s love and presence in their lives. At St. Stephen’s, we are blessed to have many children in our congregation and that number is growing. Each week, as I process the collection from the Sunday services, I find it so touching to see an offering from one young man who gives faithfully every Sunday. I’m so touched and impressed that this is an important part of his worship experience, something that he undoubtedly learned from watching his parents and grandparents. His generosity and willingness to give back to God has now inspired another child to start to give. What an incredible difference that small act has made, one that I’m very grateful for.
Psalm 145 is truly a celebration of God’s power, love, and compassion. It reminds us of the importance of continually expressing gratitude, recognizing God’s involvement in our lives, and sharing these experiences across generations.
