 |
The Transforming Power of Gratitude
Recently our son, Seph Schlueter, released his first song as a signed recording artist, "Counting My Blessings" (Sony/Provident). On our radio program tonight we showcase a version just released with Matt Maher (GO). Thus, as it's been reverberating through my soul, I've been reflecting on the power of gratitude. Which prompted my finding this very insightful and impactful article.
NEUROSCIENTIST GLENN FOX was skeptical about the power of gratitude. Until he decided to keep a gratitude journal after grieving his mother's passing. This decision marked the beginning of his transformation, from a researcher studying gratitude to one who would personally discover its extraordinary benefits. Gratitude fosters pro-social emotions, creating enduring connections, vital for human survival and flourishing. Including healing from trauma. Gratitude links to other emotions, like love and trust, and has myriad positive effects on health, including stress reduction and improved immune system, blood pressure, and heart function.
In fact, the part of the brain responsible for anxiety is the same responsible for gratitude. Practical guidance in obliterating anxiety in your soul: Count your blessings! Now let me ask, given awareness of this superpower, what if somehow we could do more than merely cultivate an attitude of gratitude, but literally partake of its essence? To literally consume gratitude? Glad you asked.
THE EARLY CHURCH unequivocally held the belief that the consecrated bread and wine truly become the body and blood of Christ during the Mass—a profound mystery that transcends human understanding. This transformative act of Communion allows believers to partake in Christ's sacrifice, receiving His healing grace and forging a deep connection with the Divine.
THE WORD "EUCHARIST" originates from the Greek word "eucharistia," which translates to "thanksgiving." Or, gratitude. This linguistic connection holds great significance. Just as gratitude journaling has been shown to enhance mental well-being, the Eucharist invites us to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness at the very core of our being. Beyond mere words, this Sacrament enables us to express gratitude by uniting ourselves with Christ's self-giving act on the Cross. Through the Eucharist, we embark on a journey of internal transformation, shifting our focus from distress to gratitude, thereby paving the way for healing and renewal.
JUST AS GLENN FOX'S JOURNEY of gratitude transformed his grief, the practice of receiving the Eucharist is Christ's unsurpassed gift of His very self, uplifting those who are burdened with distress, anxiety, and suffering. Received in faith, the Eucharist is the superpower given to transform our lives. In the Eucharist we intimately partake in Christ's very Presence, His Supreme Act of self-giving love, giving humanity the opportunity to experience the fullness of life, flourishing not only spiritually but in all aspects of existence, in this world and through all eternity.
You can find robust communities of real people truly striving to live this life in its fullness everywhere, but we certainly invite you to connect with our Mass Impact | Image Trinity movement.
----------------------------------
OUR MISSION: We're about uniting families in building the Kingdom. We help families make their homes places of saint-making, culture-building, and territory-taking disciples of Jesus Christ. Over the past ten years, thousands have been blessed by a "family roadmap." We've been united in gathering in our respective homes on a weekly basis to talk and pray using a fun, meaningful "Live IT Gathering Guide" based on subsequent Sunday readings. Get your free LIT Guide at ILoveMyFamily.us or the Live IT App at MassImpact.us/APP. Commit right now to a special Rescue Mission: Home Edition, plugged into Fr. John Riccardo's tremendous, nine-week series beginning the week of January 21 up till Holy Week.
Right now we are in particular need, and would be so grateful for your prayers, engagement, and Partnership.
Holy Spirit, come!
Greg Schlueter
Mass Impact | Image Trinity
Greg@MassImpact.us | (814) 449-8808
|
