Reflection

College Theme 2026 – Gratitude

In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will

of God for you in Christ Jesus.

Being truly thankful requires us to look beyond our current circumstances - whether blessings or struggles - and look to God, our true source of blessings. It's easy to give thanks to God when we can physically see and touch his blessings - food, money, clothes, good health, family...but what happens when feeling thankful is hard? How can we truly live a thankful life?

Sometimes life gets us down and we find it hard to see things to be thankful for. This is often true when life gets too busy. May we open our eyes to see the gifts God given us in our lives.

The Gospel passage (Luke 17:11-19) explains how Jesus healed ten lepers, but only one of the ten returned in gratitude. If we can humbly admit our struggle with gratitude, we will have taken the first step to seeing more clearly and the first step to fostering the deeper gratitude we need to have. Being grateful means seeing the truth clearly. Be open to that truth and God will change our lives as He fills us with joy!

Lord, please do fill our hearts with an abundance of gratitude. Help us to see beyond the struggles of life and the burdens that get us down. In place of these, help us to become increasingly aware of all You have done for us and all that You continue to do. As we express our thanks, we ask that you fill us with a spirit of generosity. Help us to willingly share the blessings you have entrusted to us, not only with those in need but with everyone around us. Teach us to be generous, as you are generous with us, and to use our time and talents to serve others.

Holy Family of Nazareth – Be our inspiration and our guide.

Jesus of Nazareth – Help us to grow in faith, wisdom and knowledge.

Mr Peter Stewart

Director of Faith and Mission