“Gratitude is for everyone” – Faith Matters article

Moving to Arizona last year was not an easy decision for our family. Work and finances necessitated the move, but we worried about what it would mean to leave our community of family and friends behind, especially for our young children and their sense of belonging.

Yet despite the initial fears and uncertainties, we settled into a deep calm that gave us the courage to go forward. It didn’t have so much to do with our circumstances, as with prayer—not positive or wishful thinking, but an understanding of God’s goodness and constancy that the Bible brings to light.

The book of Psalms says that God is “our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble” (Ps. 46). It also says that God, Love, is our “dwelling place” (Ps. 90), and asks poetically, “whither shall I go from thy spirit? Or whither shall I flee from thy presence? If I ascend up into heaven, thou art there, if I make my bed in hell, behold, thou art there…” (Ps. 139).

I find it comforting that praise and giving thanks are not dependent on where we are or who we are with but are rooted in an acknowledgment of the divine presence. Throughout Christ Jesus’ ministry, he gives thanks in the face of lack (Mark 8), loss (John 11), and injustice (Matthew 26). He thanks God in solitude, and in the presence of others. Through his oneness with God, Jesus knew God’s goodness is not dependent on external factors, and he proved it. His praise in the face of trials brought restoration and healing—not because God specially rewarded him, but because the act of gratitude opens our eyes to a more spiritual view of reality.

This Thanksgiving Day—before turkey, pumpkin pie, and social gatherings—Christian Scientists will gather at their local churches for an hour of worship in the spirit of Christ’s thanksgiving. We hold this Thanksgiving service every year and welcome all to join us. We will sing, pray, and reflect on scripture. We’ll also give gratitude for the ways we’ve grown spiritually, in love, patience, humility, forgiveness—and how this has brought healing, the effect of Immanuel, or “God with us,” into our lives. Christian Scientists see healing as the effect of God’s transforming love and as central to the practice of our faith tradition.

When my family walked into the house that would eventually become our new Arizona home, we found a Scriptural verse on two light switch plates that read, “The earth is full of the goodness of the Lord” (Psalms 33:5). This loving reminder has been a rock for us through this time of change. This move has expanded our sense of family and belonging and opened up new doors (literally!) for sharing life with others.

The founder of the Christian Science church, Mary Baker Eddy, wrote, “Gratitude is much more than a verbal expression of thanks. Action expresses more gratitude than speech.” This is where the blessing of gratitude comes full circle. The reasons for thanksgiving may not always be apparent at first, but prayer invites us to see from divine Love’s point of view—to discover what we have to give. Doing so brings peace, joy, even healing into our lives—no matter our circumstances.”

By Amanda Kiser, who serves as the lead representative for ecumenical and interfaith affairs for her denomination, The Church of Christ, Scientist, working from her new home in Arizona

Picture shared by Amanda to use with her permission.