I love the movie Ratatouille. Toward the end, the antagonist, a vicious food critic by the name of Anton Ego has a change of heart. And in his confession, he says, “In many ways, the work of a critic is easy. We risk very little, yet enjoy a position over those who offer up their work and their selves to our judgment. We thrive on negative criticism, which is fun to write and to read. But the bitter truth we critics must face, is that in the grand scheme of things, the average piece of junk is probably more meaningful than our criticism designating it so.”
In a culture like ours, which thrives on criticism, cancellation, deconstruction, and other pernicious practices, the people of God must take extra care to cultivate a habit of thankfulness. So, here are four small practices to help you stand athwart the cultural norms and, in some small way, cultivate thankfulness.
Begin the day with Gratitude.
What’s the first thing you do? Probably, it involves your smartphone. Take this challenge: for the next seven days, start your day by saying “thank you” to God in prayer for seven small things. I’ve been doing this for years, and its been a game-changer. Formerly, I began the day looking at the news, my email, or my calendar… not much of which made me go, “Gee, thanks!” Those things will be there, so you take control of how you engage them.Refuse to join the mob.
There is no shortage of opportunities for outrage, nor for groups of outraged people who would love for you to join in their outrage, too. But remember, mobs are not to be confused with the communion of the saints.Praise God for little providences.
Even in the most difficult moments, there are small evidences of God’s good providence. The sun in the sky, the shoes on your feet, the savior on the throne... these are all signs that God is still good, and still God. Tell him "Thank you for those good things”.Hunt for Grace.
Finally, look for evidences of grace. This takes practices, because, as Anton said, criticism is fun to write and to read… Or, fun to say and to hear… Or, fun to tweet and to retweet. But, find grace. You’ll see it, if you ask God for grace-tuned eyes.