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Thanksgiving Day invites us to pause, to gather for reflection and unified expression of gratitude for blessings we receive. While the holiday has increasingly adopted secular traditions, some individuals continue to honor its religious origins. Whatever our present condition is, we should not be too comfortable to forget God’s blessings in all times. It’s a day to take more than a few moments of the importance of daily thanksgiving. We’re accustomed to give thanks before our meals. It is a day with a joyful and thankful attitude of the heart because it is a deep appreciation of God’s blessings. It’s a testmony from that verse “In everything give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” 1 Thessalonians 5:18.
Put this eternal truth in your spirit — in your mind, in your heart and on your tongue. When you read and hear these words, they sound good, and they sound right, and they sound biblical, and they are righteous. But are you tempted to tack a “but” on to the end of the declaration? “But” it’s just too hard to commit when times are tough.
In Everything Give Thanks?
1Thessalonians 5:9-11 “For God destined us not for wrath but for obtaining salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ, who died for us, so that whether we are awake or asleep we may live with him.Therefore, encourage one another and build up each other, as indeed you are doing.” Paul’s concern for the church in Thessalonia was that they would remain faithful and hopeful with their love in Christ. This is the intentional message for us all seasons. It is an invitation in our love for Christ, for us to mature in trust, rely on God no matter what unfolds. Because the Spirit of God who is present on all things and through all things, and whom we can count on to lead us through all our challenges. At some point in life, we know someone who prays for better days, to live in peace, to earn a decent wage, to afford food and medicine, to have affordable health care, safety for the children, having opportunities to live a life freely without poverty and violence. Exhausted, but, with compassion, love and trust, remembering the worse times, we prayed. In Christ we grow stronger together. In Christ we remain faithful.
Gratitude in challenging moments can be transformative, shifting our perspective from despair to hope. Even when circumstances seem overwhelming, choosing to give thanks nurtures resilience and deepens our dependence on God. Through prayer and reflection, we discover that thankfulness is not a passive response but an active, faithful practice that shapes our hearts and unites us with others who are also seeking God’s presence. We are redeemed by a living God present in all things. During Thanksgiving and beyond, stay prayerful and grateful for all circumstances, including challenges and uncertainties, focusing on Christ’s love with joy.
Amen.
Rev. Carole M. Moore, Assistant Pastor
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