Another Christmas has passed and another new year is facing us. While the season of giving gifts may officially be over, peace, patience and encouragement are never out of season. Nor is this week’s offering.
Showing gratitude and consideration of others can never be out of season or be inappropriate and that's what I'd like to pass along to you this week and also remind myself of its value.
Sometimes I look hard and long for quotes or examples to illustrate my words but not necessary this weekend. As unusual as it is for us living here on the West Coast, this morning we had a good dump of the white stuff. A phone call from a new neighbour wondered if we had a snow shovel and, if so, could her husband come over and borrow it. "Of course," I responded. Now that hubby isn't well, I have only a little of the strength required to clear the steps of sidewalk so I was happy to let him use it. There was no pressure or request that he do our work, however, I was just glad it could be used. Looking out a bit later I realized he'd also done our sidewalks, front steps and the community sidewalk in front of our house. I call that gratitude and consideration for others.
While that's an example of an act of consideration, this gift comes in many sizes and types and it can be conveyed in both big and small ways. Let’s be alert to look for it as well as demonstrate it gratitude and consideration. Whether others respond isn’t important, how we do, is.
“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5
Today, how can you let someone know they’re truly appreciated!
