Monday of the Twenty-first Week in Ordinary Time
Two years ago, my friends and I lost an important member of our group to a heart attack. In reminiscing with one of the guys we came to a conclusion, our friend derived so much of his happiness in seeing others happy. His joy flourished in the presence of others’ joy. It is this character strength that I’m reminded of today.
In a positive sense, I see Paul writing to the Thessalonians. In these words, he speaks of how he gives thanks to God for the people in Thessalonica. Following that he declares with confidence that these people have been called. This positive behavior challenges my norm.
I’m challenged to greater thankfulness. When I’m thankful for something or someone I recognize that I am not the origin and that this thing of person is a gift. A gift that is given by God.
With these eyes of gratitude, we can follow in Paul's footsteps again (and hopefully avoid the scolding the Pharisees got). Paul’s letter affirms that in his gratitude the people of Thessalonica are not a threat to him. Christianity is not a competitive sport. Someone else's call is not a threat and therefore I can be joyful about them.
In this way I hope to be like my friend. Welcoming to others, walking in gratitude and deriving joy from seeing others be happy.
-Spencer Hargadon