What the saints have to say about gratitude

Pope John Paul II celebrates Mass at Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception for pilgrims from each diocese in U.S. and International delegates. (File photo by James Baca/Denver Catholic Register)

Gratitude isn’t just for the season of Thanksgiving, it’s part of a healthy spiritual life. It’s everywhere in the Bible, from the Psalms (“Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to him; bless his name!” Psalm 100:4), to the Gospel of Luke (17:1-19) where Jesus cured the 10 lepers — and only one returned to thank him and praise God.

So for a little encouragement, here’s what some of the saints had to say about having a heart that is grateful.

“In all created things discern the providence and wisdom of God, and in all things give Him thanks.” – St. Teresa of Avila

“Remember the past with gratitude.  Live the present with enthusiasm.  Look forward to the future with confidence.” – St. John Paul II

“The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for what He is sending us every day in His goodness.” – St. Gianna Beretta Molla

“Thank God ahead of time.” – Bl. Solanus Casey

“Would that I could exhaust myself in acts of thanksgiving and gratitude towards this Divine Heart, for the great favor He shows us.” – St. Margaret Mary Alacoque

“Get used to lifting your heart to God, in acts of thanksgiving, many times a day. Because he gives you this and that. Because you have been despised. Because you haven’t what you need or because you have. Thank him for everything, because everything is good.” – St. Josemaria Escrivá

“Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” – Saint Mary Euphrasia