Could our lives look any different if we were more grateful?

Numerous studies have shown there is a marked difference in the health of an individual who practices thankfulness.

It could be argued that the first sin in Genesis was a failure in gratitude. God had given mankind all of creation to steward, yet instead of thankfully accepting this awesome gift, he wanted the one thing he couldn’t have.

We look at different aspects of gratitude: how we can be thankful in our circumstances, no matter how challenging they may seem; how gratitude has a role in positions of power.

How grateful are we for how we are invited to share in God’s Kingdom?

Astonished Gratitude

'Astonished Gratitude' / Neil Dawson

John 4 describes the meeting of Jesus and a Samaritan woman. In this account, we learn that this woman carried a great deal of shame and pain from her life experiences. This is another example of a ​“Good News” story, for all those who have felt the weight of shame, rejection or hurt.

Jesus offers her a drink from the ​‘living water’, which never runs dry. Unlike many temporary solutions or quick fixes, which inevitably never last, we have the opportunity to come the Well of Living Water to quench our thirst. This woman’s life was transformed by her encounter with Jesus, just as ours can be too.

Good News for the Shamed and Rejecred

'Good News for the Shamed and Rejected' / Neil Dawson

We are called to create a space where people can come just as they are.

Maybe, like Amy, over lockdown, you’ve gained a new appreciation for home and the nearby community.

A lot of the early church consisted of gatherings in homes. Homes are where people can come as they are, and be accepted unconditionally.

Although COVID restrictions mean having people round at our house isn’t always possible, we can still ask the question: can we carry the heart of a homemaker with us as we meet people where they are?

Homemakers

'Homemakers' / Amy Anderson

We are ordinary people, of all ages and backgrounds, inviting you to meet with us on Sunday at 11am. Come as you are!

'Good News for the Shamed and Rejected' / Neil Dawson

Grace Community Church NI

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