It's a great story that reminds us that even with all the fine food associated with this holiday, ultimately, what counts most in life, our presence with one another, and how it is the revelation of God Himself present with us. In that spirit, maybe some popcorn and toast isn't so bad after all for Thanksgiving, though I still like my fix of turkey, not only on this holiday, but other days, too.
This holiday resonates with me deeply because it's a national USA holiday that has strong spiritual overtones, evident in the 1863 proclamation President Lincoln issued 160 years ago establishing Thanksgiving Day as an annual holiday. The wording reminds us to look around at the blessings and bounty all around us, and to recognize all of it as gifts from our gracious God, Who continually sustains us with His goodness and mercy.
And all that God has done for us surely compels a response from us. Notably, the Spanish phrase for this holiday is "Dia Acción de Gracias". Indeed, we are called to act in response to God. I heard an interview on Relevant Radio in which someone suggested the idea of "Thanks-living". We give thanks by the way we live our lives, making much of these gifts, as we share them with others so that we may truly know God's goodness is abundant.
It reminds me of the Taize song based on Philippians 4, "In the Lord, I'll be Ever Thankful". When we pause to be thankful at what we already have, we recognize God is present with us.
There's something to be said for how our country has a specific day designated for Thanksgiving, and I hope it reflects in our character for how we live the spirit of Thanksgiving constantly, because of how much we have to be grateful for each day.
God bless the USA!
A Blessed Thanksgiving to all!
I enjoyed this post. Happy Thanksgiving!
ReplyDeleteExcellent thoughts on Thanksgiving, our Lord, and Abe Lincoln.
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