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Appreciation

"He threw himself at Jesus' feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. Jesus asked, 'Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?'"¹

Although you may have missed her, actress Kathy Bates played the vital role of heiress Molly Brown in the movie Titanic.

Bates became known as the "mom" to the crew and became known as well as one who continually encouraged the crew and cast. Bates told a story in an interview some time ago to explain her perspective.

"There's a great story I always remember when I think about crews and directors. There was a guest conductor who was rude to everyone in the symphony. Everyone hated him. Finally, at the packed dress rehearsal, he lifts his arms and nothing happens. Not a sound. He's stunned. He draws himself up and gives the down beat again. No sound. Finally, the first-chair violinist stands up and says, 'That's just to show you that no sound comes out of that baton of yours.' I always think about that when I am making a movie."²

Everyone needs to be appreciated. And everyone needs to express appreciation.

Suggested prayer, "Dear God, please give me a thankful heart and help me always to live in an attitude of gratitude. Open my eyes to see, not only Your great love for me, but also the innumerable blessings You give to me every day of my life. And help me to express appreciation to all the people You bring into my life ... and help me to practice appreciation most of all at home. Thank You for hearing and answering my prayer. Gratefully in Jesus's name, amen."

1. Luke 17:16-18 (NIV).
2. Adapted from USA Today, May 1998

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