January, the first month of the year, holds special significance as a fresh start, a chance to realign our hearts with the principles of thankfulness and humility. Under the quiet brilliance of the winter stars, we are reminded of the vastness of creation and the smallness of our place within it—a perfect setting to embrace gratitude and humility.
In the Gospel of Luke, we find a profound example of humility that resonates deeply with the human condition. “And the publican, standing afar off, would not lift up so much as his eyes unto heaven, but smote upon his breast, saying, God be merciful to me a sinner” (Luke 18:13). This prayer, uttered in brokenness, is a vivid expression of humility. The publican, aware of his unworthiness, approaches Our Lord with a heart fully surrendered. This moment of acknowledgment is the foundation of gratitude, for it begins with recognizing who we are about Our Father. When we see ourselves rightly—finite and flawed—we become acutely aware of the mercy and grace extended to us. Gratitude is not simply a response to blessings but a recognition of the unearned favor we receive daily.
The Apostle Paul, in his letter to the Ephesians, writes, “Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (Ephesians 5:20). This passage invites us to adopt gratitude as a way of life, not limited to moments of joy or abundance. Genuine gratitude persists even in hardship, for it is rooted in the recognition that Our Lord and Creator work all things for our good. This perspective is not always easy to maintain, especially in times of loss or uncertainty, but it is precisely in these moments that gratitude becomes an act of faith. By giving thanks in all circumstances, we align our hearts with the will of Our Father and open ourselves to His transformative power.
Gratitude also fosters humility by shifting our focus from ourselves to the One who sustains us. We are reminded of our dependence on Him when we acknowledge that every good and perfect gift comes from Our Lord. This humility is not a burden but a liberation, freeing us from the illusion of self-sufficiency and inviting us into a deeper, more intimate relationship with Our Creator. As we cultivate gratitude, we learn to see our blessings not as entitlements but as expressions of Our Father’s love and grace.
The principles of gratitude and humility are echoed in the Septuagint: “Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; make known his deeds among the peoples!” (Psalm 105:1). Gratitude, expressed openly and sincerely, has a ripple effect, drawing others into the fold of thankfulness and deepening our collective awareness of Our Father’s presence in our lives. It fosters a sense of community and a shared spiritual journey.
Our Lord and Saviour demonstrated humility and gratitude in the simple yet profound act of washing His disciples’ feet. “If I then, your Lord and Master, have washed your feet; ye also ought to wash one another's feet. For I have given you an example, that ye should do as I have done to you.” (John 13:14-15). In this act of service, Our Lord embodied the essence of humility, placing the needs of others above His own. This gesture reminds us that gratitude and humility are not merely attitudes but actions that reflect the heart of the Gospel. To truly live out these principles, we must be willing to serve, to place ourselves in positions of vulnerability and grace, and to honor Our Lord by loving others as He loves us.
As we embrace the principles of gratitude and humility, we find that they are deeply interconnected. Gratitude leads us to humility, for when we recognize the blessings in our lives, we are reminded of our dependence on Our Lord and Creator. Humility, in turn, deepens our gratitude, for it opens our eyes to the countless ways Our Father sustains and provides for us. These virtues create a foundation for a life that honors Our Lord and blesses those around us.
Let us carry the lessons of thankfulness and humility into our daily lives. Gratitude shifts our hearts to recognize Our Lord’s providence, even in challenges, while humility aligns us with the example of Our Lord and Saviour, who humbled Himself to serve. Reflecting on the Apostle Paul’s words, “In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18), let us strive to embody these principles not just on a Thursday in January but throughout the year. In doing so, we honor Our Lord and Creator, whose love and mercy endure forever.
Share the Blessing
Thank you for spending time with us in reflection today. By recognizing Our Lord's hand in all things, both the blessings and the challenges, we can grow in faith and live with a heart full of thankfulness. If this devotional has blessed you, we encourage you to share it with others needing rest and peace. Let's continue to support one another in our pursuit of spiritual renewal by spreading the message of His peace.
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Together, let us journey toward deeper reflection and rest in Our Lord. May you walk in wisdom and light, always guided by His truth. In Jesus' name, Our Lord and Saviour.
