Some days the weight of our global circumstances as a result of Covid-19 is heavier than others. If I linger too long, anxiety begins to build and the things over which I have no control begin to take root in my heart and mind. I am concerned about the well-being of my family, friends, and each of you. Do you have what you need? Are you lonely, safe, healthy, employed?

I am concerned about the rising numbers of households impacted by domestic violence and child abuse. I wonder what our world will be like a year from now. Honestly, I cannot bring myself to feel grateful for the new dangers that exist in our world.

Just as I begin to fall down the rabbit hole of uncertainty, my ruminations are disrupted by one of our dogs growling out the window. We have no interlopers, but we do have a dramatic increase in activity from families taking evening walks as part of their new routine.

People of all ages are riding their bicycles and walking their dogs multiple times a day. Our neighbors are getting acquainted with one another — even if behind a protective mask. Nowadays, there are more pedestrians than cars passing by our home. The neighborhood has literally come alive!

I am encouraged by the ways our communities are pulling together and expressing gratitude for medical teams and civil servants. I am inspired by all of you! In voluminous numbers, you join us for worship in new and different ways, help us serve thousands of meals a week to those in need, and commit to pray with and for us. For these gifts, I am truly grateful and filled with hope for the future!

As my mindset shifts to naming those things for which I am grateful, I feel in myself the weight of fear. I am reminded of the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Romans. God is at work in all things for the good of those who love him (Romans 8:28). If any good can be rendered, God will make sure it is so.

When we suffer, God suffers right along with us. In the midst of life’s biggest trials, tragedies, and uncertainties, God loves us and is working for goodness.

So, I am grateful to the Lord at all times!

Our Psalms have a way of putting words to the full range of human emotions. They are also woven together with praise and thanksgiving. If you are in need of help putting gratefulness into words, spend time in the Psalms. Psalm 34:1-4 is a great place to start, particularly if you would like to begin a prayer practice of gratitude.

I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. (Psalm 34:1-4)

There is always a place for quiet contemplation of Scripture and lifting prayers to God. There is always a place for embodied prayers – prayers that require movement, using your voice, and taking action.

Perhaps you feel closest to God when you are in nature, in the presence of your partner, playing or listening to music, serving meals, etc. The key is to intentionally stop at any given moment and take note of the opportunities before you and acknowledge your own expression of gratitude.

Some tips for practicing gratefulness as a prayer include:

• Start each day by blessing God for his abiding love and grace
• Make a daily list of at least five things for which you are grateful
• Incorporate thankfulness into the conversation at mealtimes
• Have a weekly Zoom session or phone call with friends or co-workers to share gratitudes with one another
• Watch for opportunities for gratitude in mundane activities such as handwashing, laundry folding, grocery shopping, etc.

In the midst of life’s struggles and celebrations, remember that we are given infinite opportunities to express gratefulness. Bless God!

When others hear you, they will be glad! When you seek God, you will find freedom from fear! Cultivating a prayer practice of gratitude is contagious!