The Object of Gratitude

Gratitude has been getting a lot of press lately.

Psychologists present research demonstrating the many mental and emotional benefits of practicing gratitude. Motivational speakers and productivity gurus talk about the value of incorporating gratitude into their daily routines. Publishing companies are releasing gratitude journals sprinkled with inspirational quotes.

But, there’s something missing.

The object of gratitude.

Gratitude implies that a gift has been received. If a gift was received, then there must have been a giver.

Do you see what’s been done? They’ve made gratitude about the receiver rather than about the giver. The expression of gratitude, as a response to the giver, has been turned into the emotion of gratitude, to further profit the receiver.

Thursday, we celebrate Thanksgiving.

As we sit down to share a meal with our families and friends, let’s remember to whom we give thanks.

Let’s remember that every gift has a giver.

Let’s remember that there is none worthier of our gratitude than the God who gave us life and breath, provision and protection, justice and order, forgiveness and grace, love and relationship.

Thanksgiving, after all, is about giving thanks. So, this year, let’s do that.

Let’s give thanks to God – the Giver of every good and perfect gift.