Appreciation

The aim of life is appreciation; there is no sense in not ap­preciating things; and there is no sense in having more of them if you have less appreciation of them. ―G.K. Chesterton

Learning Contentment

“I have learned to be content with whatever I have. I know what it is to have little, and I know what it is to have plenty. In any and all circumstances I have learned the secret of being well-fed and of going hungry, of having plenty and of being in need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.” ―Philippians 4:11b-13

Prayer

Lord, may we learn what it means to appreciate what we do have instead of constantly stewing over what we do not have. Teach us this secret of contentment that Chesterton and the Apostle Paul knew so well.

Advent Action

Find an ordinary object that you already own and truly value. The object may be as commonplace as a handbag or pair of boots, as homey as a basket or bowl, as symbolic as a book or soccer ball. Place this object as the centerpiece on your table or in a prominent place where you will notice it frequently. Each time it comes to your attention, consider a new way of appreciating it, thanking God for its qualities and the joy it brings you.

[From: Advent and Christmas: Wisdom from G.K. Chesterton]