Grateful Hearts

I led adoration yesterday and I want to share some snippits with you. On Sunday, the gospel was about the 10 lepers who were healed by Jesus but only one came back to give Him thanks and praise. I thought it would be good if we focused on thanksgiving to God, whom we often forget to thank (I know I do). We sang "How Great Thou Art" and then I had them write down things they are thankful to God for. I asked those from this second form (sophomore) girls class who were willing, to turn in their papers so I could share some of their thoughts with all of you. Here are some excerpts:

"I am thankful to God for each day that he gave me, for permitting my parents to be alive and to be with me, for the opportunity that he gave me, which is my education. But the most important above everything is for permitting me to be His child, for being part of Him. For changing my life and taking me to the good path with Him."

"I am thankful to God for: understanding me and forgiving my sins and nonsense."

"You can put this on your blog if you want... =)

Dear Dad, =) I'm thankful for everything! Especially the love that my friends give me. They are D, Lucia, Anne, Razieli, Jamir, Rosanny, Nigel, and Shamira. I have more friend but I thank you for these 8 the most! =) They never leave me behind and they are always there for me no matter what! =) I thank you for my Dad too. Although we are fighting right now...I love him! =) That's all...=)

Love you,
Karen "

"I thank you too because you have given me a beautiful life. Thank you very much God. Thank you for being with me in bad and good time. Love you very much Father. Thank you."

"God is the one who gives me everything so I have to thank him for everything he does for me. I also thank God for the material things He gives me, but I thank him mostly for giving me opportunities to change and to be the person that I am."

"I am thankful for knowing all volunteers especially for Mr. Ken who was here last year with us, for Ms. Brynne, for Mr. Dave, for Ms. Lucia, Mr. Tom, and Ms. Bethany. "

"I am thankful for what I have. My family life and all the wonderful things I will always going to give thanks to God because without his help I will not be able to be here at high school. I am from a poor family that we can not afford to pay for my high school. I am happy because with the help of Jesus I was able to come to high school. Thanks Lord."

What a joy to read these! These kids are so beautiful.