by Sister Gretchen Pavkov, Stake RS First Counselor
In Luke 17:11-19 we read the story of the ten lepers who while they “stood afar off” called out to the Savior, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” They followed his instruction, and all ten were “cleansed.” However, “one turned back and with a loud voice glorified God” and “fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks.” All ten lepers had been blessed with the eradication of their leprosy, yet only one stopped to thank and praise the giver of the great blessing. To this man was given the second blessing of (vs. 19) being made whole.
Here, the Lord is teaching all of us that we also, can be made “whole” through the expression of Gratitude.
One University study found scientific proof of the positive relationship between gratitude and happiness. The results concluded that “people who practice gratitude through activities such as keeping a gratitude journal, are more loving, forgiving, and optimistic about the future, exercise more frequently, report fewer illnesses and generally felt better about their lives.”
In D&C 59:7 we have been instructed: “ Thou shalt thank the Lord in all things.” And in verse 21 we learn that great joy comes from acknowledging the hand of the Lord in all things.
Brigham Young once stated, “I do not know of any, excepting the unpardonable sin, that is greater than the sin of ingratitude.”
President Thomas S. Monson said, “We can lift ourselves and others as well when we refuse to remain in the realm of negative thought and cultivate within our hearts an attitude of gratitude. If ingratitude is numbered among the serious sins, then gratitude takes its place among the noblest of virtues. Someone has said that “gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.”
It has been my experience that the Lord asks of me, that which is in my best interest. That which brings me closer to him. This week at your family dinners see if you can daily list five things for which you are thankful for and see if the attitude of gratitude lingers.
Akron Ohio Stake News 