Marvelous in Our Eyes: Gratitude as the Light of Christmas

Embracing the Light of Gratitude

Christmas is a season of wonder, celebration, and joy. Yet, it is also a time to pause, reflect, and give thanks for the immeasurable blessings God has poured into our lives. Gratitude, especially during this season, is a way to illuminate our hearts and lift our spirits, anchoring us in the goodness of God's promises.

The psalmist beautifully captures this truth in Psalm 118:23-25 (NASB):

"This came about from the Lord; it is marvelous in our eyes. This is the day which the Lord has made; let’s rejoice and be glad in it. Please, O Lord, do save us; please, O Lord, do send prosperity!"

This Christmas, as we celebrate the gift of Jesus Christ, let us take intentional steps to cultivate gratitude—a radiant light that reflects God's faithfulness, opens our hearts to joy, and transforms the way we experience this sacred season.

Gratitude Reflects God’s Marvelous Work

Psalm 118:23 reminds us that all good things come from the Lord, and they are "marvelous in our eyes." Gratitude begins when we acknowledge that every blessing we enjoy, big or small, is a direct result of God's goodness and sovereignty.

Reflection:

Think about the ways God has worked in your life this year. Perhaps it was a prayer answered, a door opened, or His sustaining presence in a difficult season. When we intentionally reflect on His marvelous works, gratitude becomes a natural response.

Application:

Start a gratitude journal this Christmas season, listing three ways God has shown His goodness each day.

Share with family and friends how God has blessed you and encourage them to reflect on His works too.

Meditate on passages like Psalm 118, allowing Scripture to deepen your awareness of His hand in your life.

By focusing on God's marvelous works, we not only grow in appreciation but also invite others to see His glory in our lives.

Gratitude Invites Joy into Every Day

Verse 24 calls us to rejoice and be glad because "this is the day which the Lord has made." Gratitude and joy are interconnected. When we express thanks, even for the simplest blessings, we unlock a deeper sense of contentment and happiness.

Reflection:

Christmas can sometimes feel overshadowed by stress, expectations, or grief. However, when we choose gratitude, we shift our focus from what we lack to the abundance of God's presence and provision. Joy is found not in perfect circumstances but in the recognition of God's perfect grace.

Application:

Begin each day with a prayer of gratitude, thanking God for the gift of another day and His constant presence.

Create moments of joy with loved ones by focusing on meaningful experiences, like reading the Christmas story together or serving others in need.

Replace complaints with praise. When tempted to grumble, take a moment to thank God instead.

Gratitude is a doorway to joy, and when we rejoice in the Lord, His joy becomes our strength.

Gratitude Transforms Our Perspective

Psalm 118:25 includes a heartfelt plea for salvation and prosperity. Gratitude doesn't ignore our needs or struggles; instead, it transforms how we see them. When we are grateful, we approach life with hope, trust, and a deeper faith in God's ability to provide and sustain us.

Reflection:

Are there areas in your life where you’re waiting on God? Gratitude in these moments shifts our perspective from anxiety to trust. It reminds us that God is faithful to complete the work He has started in us, and His timing is perfect.

Application:

In your prayers, thank God for what He is doing, even in areas where you’re still waiting for answers.

Celebrate small victories and milestones, recognizing them as part of God's bigger plan.

Use this season to serve others, demonstrating gratitude for God’s blessings by being a blessing to someone else.

When we choose gratitude, we allow God's peace to fill our hearts, enabling us to see His grace at work even in the midst of uncertainty.

Living Gratefully This Christmas

Gratitude is more than a seasonal sentiment—it is a spiritual discipline that draws us closer to God and fills our hearts with joy. This Christmas, as we celebrate the birth of our Savior, may we choose to illuminate our lives with gratitude for His marvelous works, the joy of His presence, and the hope of His provision.

Let Psalm 118:23-25 remind us to marvel at God's goodness, rejoice in His daily blessings, and trust in His saving grace. As we give thanks, we reflect the light of Christ, bringing His hope and love to the world around us.