Happy February!
I am pleased to tell you that this is the month we are starting our Gratitude Project. If you haven’t heard of our Gratitude Project, that’s ok! It’s a project we’ve been stewing on but haven’t really mentioned before. We are into a new year, and are thinking of new ways to reach out to the Hudson area public. One of our members suggested we find a way to show our gratitude to individuals and groups in our community. So, we are jumping right in and figuring out what this project consists of as we go.
When we think of gratitude, our minds may automatically go to thankfulness. We can stop and be thankful for so many things. We can be thankful for our health, thankful someone is in our lives, thankful for the food we have and the homes we live in.
Gratitude is something different than that. Something deeper. It is something we give. Thankfulness is more of a fleeting emotion, while gratitude is a deeper sentiment. Something that can grow over time.
Think of it as how someone gains a friend. Very often, a deep friendship grows out of the sum total of little offerings. A handwritten note on their birthday. A thoughtful gift given. A phone call to check on them when they know they are down. Helping with a task that is inconvenient. These things add up and a loving friendship is formed.
Our community is in need of a loving friendship, so to speak. And our church can grow that friendship out of the little offerings we give to the people of our community. So keep your ears open about our Gratitude Project and let’s find ways to give our gratitude.
As Paul said to the Corinthians, “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God.”
Peace and Blessings always!
Pastor Brian
First United Methodist Church, Hudson, MI 