This letter gives us another secret to growth and change to those of us who are feeling a little bit complacent. Maybe we feel a little more bored than blessed when we connect with church … Perhaps we feel a lot more attached to this world than we’d like - (who doesn’t struggle with that?) and looking us straight in the eye Jesus says - “I want you to see your need as you never have before. Then I’d be able to meet your need as I never have before.”
John writes this way to the church in Laodicea - “To the angel of the church of Laodicea write, ‘These are the words of the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the ruler of God’s creation. I know your deeds that you’re neither cold nor hot … I wish that you were one or the other … But you don’t realise you’re wretched, pitiful, poor, blind and naked. I counsel you get from me gold refined in the fire so you can become rich and white clothes to wear so you can cover your shameful nakedness salve to put on your eyes so you can see.” (Revelation 3:14 ff)
Not easy words from Jesus but they end with his remarkable promise - “Look! I am standing at the door and I’m constantly knocking. If anyone opens the door I will come in and I’ll fellowship with him; I’ll relate to him, I’ll dine with him and he’ll fellowship with me.” (Revelation 3:20 – Message)
Research has shown that the healthiest emotion a person can have is gratitude. It makes us feel better. It makes us live longer. It’s a stress reliever. If we’re a grateful person, then we’ll live happier and healthier lives.
The idea of having an attitude of thankfulness permeates Scripture. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 reminds us to - “Give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
So how do we develop the attitude of gratitude? We do it by appreciating other people; we appreciate their loyalty, their differences and their efforts. And that appreciation needs to be genuine, recognizable and regular.
What a great resolution for a new year – to be more appreciative and thankful.