Greetings, friends. Pastor Loren Christensen here, and I'm glad to have you join me for this special edition of "A Word from the Vine." Today, we're diving deep into a topic that's been weighing heavily on my heart, especially as we approach the Thanksgiving season – the pervasive issue of ingratitude.
Let's start with a powerful verse from the Gospel of Luke, chapter 6, verse 35: "But love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return, and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, for he is kind to the ungrateful and the evil." This scripture lays the foundation for our exploration today, challenging us to love and do good without expecting anything in return, just as our heavenly Father does.
I want to delve into the concept of expecting nothing in return. In our culture, it seems entitlement has become a pervasive mindset. We expect rewards for basic tasks, and this undermines the essence of genuine gratitude. It's as if we've lost the beauty of doing something simply out of love and kindness.
Consider the shift from a strong work ethic to an entitlement mentality. There was a time when hard work was valued for its intrinsic worth, but now, it often comes with the expectation of immediate and extravagant rewards. This shift is concerning and speaks to a broader issue within our society.
Now, let's address a paradox many of us face, especially around Thanksgiving – the family dilemma. We demand time off for family, but how often do we truly utilize that time for meaningful connections? The generational tensions that arise during obligatory gatherings reveal a deeper issue. It's time to ponder whether we're approaching these moments with genuine love and gratitude or with a sense of obligation.
In conclusion, as we navigate the Thanksgiving season, let's reflect on the true spirit of gratitude. Are we giving and loving with genuine hearts, expecting nothing in return? It's a challenge for us all, myself included, to unveil and confront the subtle, yet powerful, presence of ingratitude in our lives.
Thank you for joining me on this introspective journey. Until next time, may our hearts be filled with true gratitude.
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