[Soul Sunday] Embracing Grace and Gratitude During the Holidays

Happy Soul Sunday!!

"Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 (NIV)

Welcome to Soul Sunday! As we step into the festive season, let's explore the profound beauty of grace and gratitude. Our guiding scripture, 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, encourages us to find joy, maintain prayer, and express gratitude in all life's seasons. This holiday, let's deepen our appreciation for the blessings around us and spread the warmth of grace.

This past weekend could have ended very differently for me. But I decided to embrace it no matter what. For me, rejoicing in and giving thanks for everything has helped me to go deeper in my faith. Let’s imagine a holiday table, filled with the laughter of loved ones, friends and family and the glow of shared stories. It's in these moments of togetherness that grace and gratitude shine brightest.

The holiday season brings a unique opportunity to pause and reflect on our blessings, recognizing the grace that threads through our lives. Even if you can’t be together physically, try Zoom or Google Meet or even Teams. But make plans.

Grace isn't just about what we receive; it's also about what we give. It's in the small acts of kindness, the warm embraces, and the words of encouragement that we extend to others. Gratitude amplifies this grace, turning what we have into enough and more.

In this season of giving and receiving, let's not forget the greatest gift of all - the gift of love and kindness we can offer to those around us. This holiday, let each moment be an opportunity to show gratitude in action, to offer a listening ear, a helping hand, or a word of comfort. As we spread this grace, we light up the world around us, creating a ripple effect of love and kindness that transcends the festive season.

As we embrace the holiday spirit, let's remember to be gracious in our interactions and grateful for our blessings, both big and small. Let this season be a reminder of the joy and peace that grace and gratitude bring to our hearts and homes.

Action Points:

• Spread Kindness: Perform an act of kindness each day during this holiday season. It could be as simple as a warm smile or a helping hand or paying for someone’s groceries or giving someone a $20, $50 or even $100 dollar bill randomly.
• Express Gratitude: Take time each day to acknowledge and appreciate the good in your life. List it out. Share your gratitude with others, by telling them why you are grateful for them.
• Family Gratitude Circle: Start a new tradition with your family where each person shares something they are grateful for.

Let Us Pray:?

Heavenly Father, in this season of joy and celebration, fill my hearts with grace and gratitude. Help me to see the beauty in the everyday blessings and to extend your grace to those around me. May my heart overflow with thankfulness, and may my actions reflect your love and kindness. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Meditation/Mindfulness:

Sit quietly and focus on your breath. Breathe in and out three times. Really center yourself. Close your eyes if you can…and. Visualize a circle of light encompassing you and your loved ones, symbolizing the grace and gratitude that binds you together. Include those here with you and those gone on to glory. Feel the warmth of this light as it fills your heart with peace and joy. See the smiling faces. And smile back. Rest your mind right here for as long as you want. Then take one final breath in and out and open your eyes.

Journaling Prompts:

1. Reflect on a moment this year when you felt a deep sense of gratitude.
2. Write about someone who has shown you grace and how it impacted you.
3. List three things you are grateful for this holiday season.

Final Thought:

As we conclude this Soul Sunday, carry the spirit of grace and gratitude with you. Let these virtues illuminate your path and bring warmth to your holiday celebrations. Remember, it's not just the grand gestures, but the small acts of kindness and expressions of thanks that make the holiday season truly magical. Embrace this time with an open heart, and watch as grace and gratitude transform your experiences into lasting memories.

Profit and Prayers,

Rev. Lisa

Lisa Ealy :: HR?Teams For Profit Profit Strategies for Smart People ... Like You!

6-Figure Award Winning Business

#1 Bestselling Author

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