Thanksgiving

Here we go again. As I write, tomorrow is Thanksgiving Day. I think this must be the most unusual holiday of the year. I mean, it shouldn’t be and it didn’t used to be, but in the 21st century it is. The very name indicates the idea of giving thanks. It was always understood, that we are thanking God for provision. For everything from our daily bread all the way to salvation. But I believe that the majority of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving Day without any sense of being thankful or who to be thankful to. It is a day for feasting and football.

America was founded on Christian principles. There is no doubt about that. Freedom of religion was one of the most basic foundations of this country. As with any true freedom, people must be free to reject faith as well. Sadly, that is what has happened. At best, we can say that America is a post-Christian nation. Therefore, the majority of Americans either don’t believe in God or refuse to acknowledge Him in any way.

Those of us in the minority. Those who still call on the name of the Lord. We must remember to give thanks. Not just tomorrow, but every day. I am not suggesting that we have a mini church service instead of turkey. We can certainly enjoy family, food and even football on Thanksgiving Day. What I am suggesting is that we all spend a little time individually thanking God in our hearts. Let’s make this holiday a day of remembering how he has provided and blessed. Let’s be thankful for His grace and think about how amazing it truly is. When we meditate on grace, it is no small thing!

I will leave you with a portion of an old hymn that is particularly relevant:

Count your blessings, name them one by one

Count your blessings, see what God hath done

Count your blessings, name them one by one

And it will surprise you what the Lord hath done