What is the antidote to misery, self-centeredness, bitterness, victim mentality, discontent, side-long glances, jealousy, envy, unhealthy competition, unforgiveness? Namely, pandora’s box of unhappiness?
The antidote is this Table, the giving of thanks. Gratitude based on unmerited grace. A deep, overflowing reservoir of thanksgiving for God’s abounding grace and mercy.
At each sacred meal, the realization of God’s initiative to forgive us while we were yet sinners, the reminder that our efforts fall short but God’s efforts cover a multitude of our sins.
This plays out in the lives of the saints by jump starting our deep gratitude towards God but not leaving it there. We receive grace from Him and from Him learn to extend grace and mercy to others. Our thanksgiving leaves no room for all the ills mentioned above, particularly envy, bitterness, unforgiveness. Want to be happy? Abound in gratitude.
