Advent: Catholic ReflectionsPrøve

Today the Church marks out as a day of praise and thanksgiving to God. In our Bible readings we read of Hannah dedicating the gift of her son Samuel back to the Lord. Filled with gratitude and thanksgiving to God for her son, she desires only to give him back to God. In Luke's Gospel, Mary sings her great hymn of praise (the Magnificat), in which she prays, "the Almighty has done great things for me." Taking time to give God glory, praise, and thanksgiving not only is delightful to God, but is also a real opportunity to raise our own spirits. An attitude of gratitude can really turn us around and open up a space in our hearts for the Lord to do his will. Perhaps find some time today to praise and thank God in a way that is helpful to you.