The Christian life is above all the grateful response to a generous Father.
Pope Francis
Gratitude can be one of the most fruitful forms of prayer. When we specifically notice things to be grateful for, we become aware of and acknowledge God’s constant presence in our lives. Practicing gratitude daily is a practice which can change your whole attitude and it doesn’t have to take a lot of time.
Lent is a good time to start this practice. Here are some specific steps for praying in gratitude.
- Find a comfortable and quiet place.
- Make the Sign of the Cross.
- Ask God to show you where He was present in your day.
- Think about some things from the past day which you are grateful for.
- It is good to have a minimum number of things to come up with each day – 3 or 5 or 10 for example
- Try to be specific. Instead of being grateful for your family in general, think of a specific interaction with a family member
- Spend a little time enjoying the memories of the things you are grateful for.
- Thank God for each of these and any special circumstances which made them possible.
- End with the Sign of the Cross.
Gratitude is a characteristic trait of the heart visited by the Holy Spirit; to obey God we must first remember his benefits.
Pope Francis
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