“In everything give thanks (…)” 1 Thessalonians 5:18

Yes, let us give thanks to God. Too often, our eyes focus on what is lacking, on requests still pending, on blessings we hope for. By doing this, we forget to take in what God is already accomplishing—silently, faithfully, every day. The Word calls us to a different path: that of gratitude, which opens the heart and illuminates faith.

Paul exhorts us: "In everything give thanks." Thanking God is not merely a pious suggestion; it is a fundamental stance of faith, God’s very will for us in Christ. By giving thanks, we declare by faith that God is already faithfully at work, even when our human eyes have not yet seen the fruit of His promises.

We have a thousand and one reasons to lift up our gratitude. For the breath of life given to us each morning (Psalm 3:5). For His faithfulness, immense and ever new each dawn (Lamentations 3:22-23). For salvation in Jesus Christ, a perfect gift that we could not earn (Ephesians 2:8). And even in the midst of our weaknesses, His grace that sustains us: "My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness" (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Our nature counts the lacks, but God invites us to contemplate the abundance already given. Israel grumbled despite the daily manna (Exodus 16:2-4), forgetting that each day bore the dazzling proof of God's faithfulness. We too, when we set the horizon of our expectations, risk overlooking the flowers of grace already blossoming along our path.

Gratitude is not a mere feeling: it is a spiritual strength that transforms our perspective and prepares the breakthrough. Jesus Himself, before multiplying the loaves, looked up and gave thanks (John 6:11). Paul and Silas, while chained, sang; and the doors opened (Acts 16:25-26). Gratitude attracts the presence of God and releases what Our efforts cannot produce.

At the start of this year, let us therefore choose gratitude. Not just for what we expect, but for what God is already accomplishing. Gratitude frees us from murmuring, soothes the soul, and opens up space for peace. It lifts our vision and allows us to discern God’s work, often far greater than our expectations.

Let us give thanks to God. His grace surpasses our weaknesses, fills our limits, and envelops us with undeserved gifts. In gratitude, our hearts rise, and we see His hand at work. It is an act of faith.

Happy meditation.