Women’s Devotion: A Grateful Heart

A Grateful Heart

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly as you teach and admonish one another with all wisdom, and as you sing psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs with gratitude in your hearts to God.
Colossians 3:16

I moved to Colorado two months ago to be near my daughter and family, and to be much closer to my son, who lives in Oregon. My granddaughter lives near North Platte, so I am closer to my children again, for which I am grateful.

While unpacking, a word keeps reoccurring, and that word is grateful. A coaster for my desk says “Grateful” surrounded by roses. A journal that a friend gave to me a few years ago is titled “Begin Each Day with a Grateful” with a picture of a beautiful, multicolored heart. I unwrapped a wooden block with the beautiful, scripted word “Grateful” on it, a gift from my sister. I believe that I am being sent a strong message.

I have found notes and pictures of the great times that I fondly remember having at Sheridan. Good times with the SOLOS group, dear friends I developed through Women’s Ministry, my wonderful hospitality team, and the inspiring people I visited in the hospitals and rehabilitation facilities. I am so grateful for the opportunities that I was able to experience through the years at Sheridan Lutheran. It is a special place and filled with wonderful, loving and caring people. I still watch the services online to stay in touch, and look forward to a visit in August.

God has been so good. Sometimes, when things get tough, it is hard to remember that God is there every step of the way to help guide us. I keep this in mind as I look for a new church, in a new city. Pastor Greg advised me against trying to find another Sheridan. It is unique. “Look for a place you feel good about and feel comfortable at. Don’t rush. Take your time. Find one that feels right.” Great advice.

As I begin this new phase of my life, I am grateful for the opportunities God has given me. I am grateful that I was born into a faithful family. I have met some great people here already, but I will always hold my friends and neighbors in Lincoln near and dear to my heart.

Dear Heavenly Father, help us to remember you as we navigate life here on earth. Help us to keep a grateful heart and be thankful for all the blessings that you give us daily and the greatest gift of all, Jesus Christ. AMEN

This month’s devotion was written by Donna Schwartz, a member of the Women’s Ministry team until her recent move to Colorado. Donna began attending Sheridan while in nurses training and joined in 1974. Her children, Tara and TJ were baptized and confirmed here. Donna enjoys spending time with her granddaughters, Jaiden and Blake, reading, walking, enjoying the outdoors, and time with family and friends.