We’ve all heard the Thanksgiving story of the Pilgrims, but did you know that “the first Thanksgiving observance in America was entirely religious and did not involve feasting(?). On December 4, 1619, a group of 38 English settlers arrived at Berkeley Plantation, on the James River near what is now Charles City, VA. The group’s charter required that the day of arrival be observed yearly as a day of thanksgiving to God.” (The World Book Encyclopedia)
As we give thanks to God this Thanksgiving, why don’t we also give thanks to the sometimes overlooked items: the blessing of the existence of God, the gift of God dwelling within us, the wonder of Jesus, the blessing of family and friends, the miracle of a newborn child, the warmth of the sun…recounting our blessings is a wonderful way to thank God for His presence. (for other ideas of blessings, see James Bryan Smith’s The Good and Beautiful God)
So, as you give thanks to God tomorrow, and then prepare for the Christmas season, remember this terrific Psalm(Psalm 100: 4-5): “Enter his gates with thanksgiving and his courts with praise; give thanks to him and praise his name. For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations.” Wishing you a blessed Thanksgiving.
Sarah Orton Bowen 