It was most refreshing to notice most of the bus passengers taking the trouble to thank the driver at the end of their journey. In the swimming pool, many thanked the assistants and staff. It doesn't take long to do, but too often in our frantic culture, people are too obsessed with their own busyness and importance that gratitude goes out with politeness. But I don't want to become Mr. Grumpy in my observations!
I notice that Paul indicated how we should live in relation to each other, and in relation to God.
In relation to one another, he says, ' Make allowance for each other’s faults, and forgive anyone who offends you. Remember, the Lord forgave you, so you must forgive others.' (Colossians 3.13)
Paul is aware that none of us is a good as we should be, and we are broken and damaged in many ways. But so long as we recall that Jesus has forgiven us, we can be generous in our attitudes towards each other. If we can learn to apply this forgiveness at an early stage, we will find ourselves less chewed up over our reactions towards other people.
In relation to God, again, gratitude can be the hallmark of our relationship. ' And whatever you do or say, do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through him to God the Father.' (Colossians 3.17)
A sunny disposition, which notices what to thank others for, and which is rooted in an amazed appreciation of God's great love and mercy towards us, will be very good for us and everyone else we meet today.
Best wishes,
Richard
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