Prayer of Gratitude and Generosity

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When I remember how God created this world of ours,

how He looked at it with nothing but love

    and said, “it’s good. It’s very good.” –

when I recall how He entrusted us with care

for what He made –

I am grateful for our past and hopeful in our future.

 

When I remember stories Jesus told

    that painted in bold strokes the hand and heart of God –

the shepherd searching for the stray,

the parent longing for the prodigal’s return,

the teacher washing his students’ feet –

I am grateful for our past and hopeful in our future.

 

When I remember the Spirit gift He left us

Who reminds us should we forget,

Who inspires us to the necessary good,

Who helps us find the risen Christ around us,

Who gives us seeds of peace to sow on earth,

Who teaches us the love expressed in deeds,

I am grateful for our past and hopeful in our future.

 

When I remember the generosity of God –

the blessings of life and family and friends,

the health of mind and body and soul,

the love others first poured into me,

the gifts of time and talent and treasure,

and the chance to say ‘Thank You’ in kind,

I am grateful for our past and hopeful in our future.

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 - Michael E. Moynahan, SJ