Gratitude

A week ago we celebrated the renowned climax of the Triduum, the Easter Vigil. In all solemnity and beauty, light overcame darkness as the Light of Christ illumined our darkened churches. The elegant praise of the Risen King, the EXULTET, was sung as clouds of incense lingered and gave a mystical ambience as well as a sweet odor to the church. It is difficult to maintain that level of joy and beauty for the 50 days of Easter, but in subtle and subdued ways, we can sustain it. A beautiful day yesterday, and another promised for today and tomorrow give us visual pause to give thanks to God for effacing the memories of a harsh winter and delayed spring. Psalm 118 puts it rightly:
"Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good,/ for his mercy endures forever./ My strength and my courage is the Lord,/ and he has been my savior./ The joyful shout of victory in the tents of the just." (Ps 118: 1, 14-15). No matter what engages us today, we can echo these verses to keep the sun of Easter shining. Gratitude awakens feelings of elation, for it showcases the GIVER and in the light of his goodness, we see ourselves as the recipients of love unbounded and eternal. Let us bless and thank the Lord, remembering and keeping his gifts before us as we go about our Saturday routine, simply, effectively.
Bro. Rene