Lesson Summary: May 6, 2012

Today we heard from Dawne H. on the topic "Gratitude: A divine gift, worthy of constant focus, essential to mind, body and spirit. How does gratitude make you feel?" 

Jesus showed us an example when he gave thanks at the last supper. He was giving thanks for the plan for our salvation. The story of the 10 lepers is a perfect example of gratitude. One sister shared that the man that came back had to make a long journey to come back. Although all had the experience of being healed and had the blessing of living disease free, the one that came back was told that his "faith had made him whole". Indeed gratitude helps to make us whole and have happiness in our lives.  (Luke17:11-19) 

When God prepared the church for tribulations he noted that When God prepared the church for tribulations He said, "And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him even an hundred fold, year more" (D&C 78:19). We often don't thank the Lord for our difficulties. 

One sister shared that the commandment to humble ones self is difficult to understand until y of understand that having gratitude, true gratitude that includes not only expression but also a recognition of the blessing in our lives, creates humility. Dawne further noted that gratitude is equated with praise and the realization that we need him. 

One sister shared a story about a time as a child she was invited to go to a friends house. The house was new, with wonderful new furnishings and a lovey mother all dressed up with nothing to do - no book, no work, etc. That image has stuck with her. although this mother was cared for financially, it must have been unfortunate to not have anything to do. While certainly this may have been a far moment of peace for this woman, the allegorical image remains that we should have gratitude for the opportunities we have to serve each other and grow. 

We all have blessings: food to eat and shelter, opportunities to serve, our testimonies of God and Christ, our education, our relative peace...

Having gratitude indeed helps us to be whole.