Gospel Reading for September 19, 2025 – Luke 8: 1-3
OUT OF GRATITUDE
Jesus journeyed from one town and village to another, preaching and proclaiming the good news of the Kingdom of God. Accompanying him were the Twelve and some women who had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities, Mary, called Magdalene, from whom seven demons had gone out, Joanna, the wife of Herod’s steward Chuza, Susanna, and many others who provided for them out of their resources.
————
Jesus and his disciples were accompanied by women who provided for them out of their resources. These women had been cured of evil spirits and infirmities. They did not just change the kind of life they used to have, but they served OUT OF GRATITUDE for what Jesus did for them.
It is good to look back at our life and see the times God took care of us; times we were spared from danger, from sickness, from evil; times when there seemed to be no hope but a miracle happened; times when we were in dire material need and someone was kind enough to share what they had with us; times when our problems were overwhelming but we found a solution. If we look back at our lives, it is impossible not to see small and big blessings. For those of us who are elderly, it may be difficult to count them all, but if we make a habit of COUNTING OUR BLESSINGS, chances are, we will develop grateful hearts that will be prompted to share blessings with others too!
Let us reflect on this hymn written by John Oatman, Jr. – COUNT YOUR BLESSINGS
When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings; name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Count your blessings;
Name them one by one.
Count your blessings;
See what God hath done.
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings; ev’ry doubt will fly,
And you will be singing as the days go by.
Count your blessings;
Name them one by one.
Count your blessings;
See what God hath done.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you his wealth untold.
Count your many blessings; money cannot buy
Your reward in heaven nor your home on high.
Count your blessings;
Name them one by one.
Count your blessings;
See what God hath done.
So amid the conflict, whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged; God is over all.
Count your many blessings; angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.
Count your blessings;
Name them one by one.
Count your blessings;
See what God hath done.
