As we embark on this new month of November, I’ve chosen the theme, Gratitude is an Attitude. This particular Sunday, Rev. Dr. Steve Albert will be speaking on my behalf as I attend the Life Celebration of our son, Burke. Dr. Albert’s topic is entitled Faith and Trust.
As children, we had faith and trust that our parents would take care of us; that our needs would be met even without asking. Where did that trust and acceptance go as we got older? Jesus the Christ told us in order to enter heaven we must become as little children. In other words, we must have that childlike quality of trusting and knowing that our every need will be met. Sometimes as children we may want something, but in the grand scheme of things that may not be for our highest good. You certainly wouldn’t want to give a Harley motorcycle to a 6-year-old!
In that same vain, we grow in spiritual maturity when we ask in prayer for what we want, yet end the request with “this or something better.” God knows our every need and provides even before we ask.
I am reminded of the poem written by Hannah More Kohaus in the early 1900’s entitled: The Prayer of Faith. “God is my help in every need; God does my every hunger feed; God walks beside me, guide my way Through every moment of this day. I now am wise; I now am true. Patient, kind and loving too; All things I am, can do, and be, Through Christ the Truth that is in me.
God is my health I can’t be sick;
God is my strength, unfailing quick;
God is my all, I know no fear,
Since God and Love and Truth are here.”
Become as a little child, knowing that God’s loving presence is within and around you at all times. You are safe, secure and loved beyond measure. When you recognize this, allow gratitude to weld up and be grateful for Life, just as it is. And it is so.
—Rev. Gay Beauregard, Alpine Church of Spiritual Living
