Listen

Let my whole being bless the Lord! Let everything inside me bless his holy name! Let my whole being bless the Lord and never forget all his good deeds: how God forgives all your sins, heals all your sickness, saves your life from the pit, crowns you with faithful love and compassion, and satisfies you with plenty of good things so that your youth is made fresh like an eagle’s.

Psalm 103:1–5

Think

Why give thanks? My sister Damaris has a podcast, and I love that she always begins with these words: “This podcast invites you to rest in God, to pause and surrender in worship to Jesus. Discover true worship that springs from a grateful heart and an unshakable faith in the God who can do all things.”

We wonder how we can bless God in the midst of pain. The answer came to me in October 1999, when my father died, and I decided to sing at his funeral. I felt a tightness in my face from the sadness of his passing, which made me think I wouldn’t be able to do it. After I managed to sing, I realized I offered the most genuine praise, because it didn’t depend on my own strength but on a grateful heart—even in the worst moment of my life. If God has forgiven us and sustains us with love and grace every day, how much more can we forgive if we ask the God of tenderness to work in our emotions, thoughts, and spirituality?

Karla Sánchez Rivera

Question to Ponder:

How have you seen God at work in a difficult situation this week?

Pray

God of goodness, I acknowledge your love and grace at work in me. I want to bless you with my words, my life, and my whole being. Draw my heart to yours. Amen.

Go

Reflect on your own life: What role do you play? You’re invited to forgive and be forgiven.