This week we turn to that familiar passage from Philippians: “Rejoice in the Lord always; again, I will say, Rejoice” (Philippians 4:4). Here again, we find that gratitude and joy are woven together and that it is sometimes hard to tell one from the other. But it does reveal that our consideration of a life of gratitude should be exuberant, marked by the joy of being a disciple of Jesus Christ. Remind people that there is a community of faith that surrounds them with caring and gratitude and peace. Pray for contentment in the midst of difficult circumstances. We don’t ask to accept the brokenness or endure abuse, but note that we see beyond the pain of the moment to a wholeness that is offered. We give thanks for the promises of God, even when we can’t feel them at the moment.