In this episode, we reflect on the importance of giving thanks to the Lord for all He has done in both the beautiful and difficult moments of life. We talk about how practicing gratitude can change our perspective of reality and helps us recognize where God has been present even in moments we do not understand. We also name the fears that can sometimes keep us from giving thanks and discuss how gratitude becomes an act of surrender that opens us to God's steady, faithful presence. As a gift to you, we end today's episode by doing Lectio Divina with Psalm 34 and invite you into a time of prayer with us.
Heather's One Thing - Jalapeno, Pepper Jack, and Bacon Corn Pudding Recipe
Heather's Other One Thing - Hell or High Water and Edens by Amanda Cook
Sister Miriam's One Thing - Her SOLT Community
Michelle's One Thing - College Football
Other Resources Mentioned:
- Life Transitions Part One and Part Two with Chris Benzinger
- One Thousand Gifts: A Dare to Live Fully Right Where You Are by Ann Voskamp
Journal Questions:
- What graces have I received this year?
- How did the Lord accompany me this year?
- What do I need to let go of as we transition into a new liturgical year?
- What parts of my life am I afraid to give thanks for?
Discussion Questions:
- What has the Lord taught you in this season?
- What was surprising this past year?
- What challenges and joys did you experience this year?
- Where are you resistant to give thanks?
Quote to Ponder:
"Gratitude is at the center of a life of faith. It sounds too simple to be true, but isn't that the sign of all deep truth: so simple we're tempted to dismiss it, and so hard, it is exactly what God uses to change our hard lives." (Ann Voskamp)
Scripture for Lectio:
"I will bless the Lord at all times; his praise shall continually be in my mouth. My soul makes its boast in the Lord; let the humble hear and be glad. O magnify the Lord with me, and let us exalt his name together. I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears. Look to him, and be radiant; so your faces shall never be ashamed. This poor soul cried, and was heard by the Lord, and was saved from every trouble. The angel of the Lord encamps around those who fear him, and delivers them. O taste and see that the Lord is good; happy are those who take refuge in him." (Psalm 34:1-8)
Sponsor - The GIVEN Institute:
The GIVEN Institute is a vibrant non-profit organization dedicated to activating the gifts of women for the Church and the world. GIVEN wants to help you receive the gift that you are, realize the gifts you've been given, and respond with the gift only you can give.
Applications are now open for GIVEN's 2026 Leadership Program. Faithful Catholic women between the ages of 21 and 35 are encouraged to apply today!
GIVEN's program includes participation at the Leadership Forum from June 24-28, 2026 in Washington, DC and a year of dedicated, 1-on-1 mentorship with an established Catholic female leader. Abiding Together Co-Host Heather Khym will be a speaker at the 2026 Leadership Forum next June along with other phenomenal Catholic women leaders of all ages, all vocations, and all walks of life.
If you are a woman between the ages 21 and 35 and seeking leadership training, faith formation, and support to better understand and pursue your particular mission, GIVEN's Leadership Program is designed just for you! You'll grow in relationship with Christ, gain a deeper understanding of your personal vocation, and be empowered to develop an Action Plan to activate your personal gifts to impact the world.
For women over 35 with a desire to get involved, please consider becoming a Mentor or Volunteer! For more information and to apply, please visit www.giveninstitute.com/forum.
Chapters:
00:00 The Given Institute
01:26 Intro
02:16 Welcome
03:45 Practicing Being Thankful First
06:01 Giving Thanks in All Things
08:25 Gratitude is the Center of A Life of Faith
11:22 Being Afraid to Give Thanks
13:14 Lectio Divina
23:18 Our Reflections from Lectio
28:46 One Things
Music used under license i94Cr0