Let us shout joyfully to the Rock of our salvation. Let us come before His presence with thanksgiving; let us shout joyfully to Him with psalms. For the LORD is the great God, and the great King above all gods. In His hands are the deep places of the earth; the heights of the hills are His also.
(Psalm 95:1-5)
The commercial world often distorts the true meaning of Christian holidays. Thanksgiving, positioned between Halloween and Christmas, tends to be overshadowed, as it doesn’t generate substantial profits. The pattern is clear: Halloween decorations grace front lawns from late September to the end of October, and Christmas ornaments start appearing even before Thanksgiving. Many households even serve turkey under the Christmas tree, leaving the Thanksgiving spirit and the anticipation of Advent unnoticed.
It’s disheartening to observe how many Christian holidays have become excessively commercialized, with their genuine significance fading into the background. These special occasions have been reduced to mere “family days.”
We must reclaim the true essence of Christian holidays within our homes. The first Thanksgiving celebrated by the Pilgrims after their abundant harvest in the New World, was a testament to gratitude for survival and a bountiful yield. This historical event holds significance beyond mere feasting; it’s a commemoration of God’s grace and mercy that sustained them to survive. However, even for Christians, this special day transcends turkey, food, and football. It’s a day for heartfelt gratitude and the singing of the Lord’s praises. Everything we enjoy in this world is a gift from God, and His grace bestows all goodness upon us. Let us reflect on God’s blessings and give thanks for them not only during the month of Thanksgiving but always.
Sadly, for many around the world, this Thanksgiving Day will be a time of mourning, marked by the absence of loved ones who once gathered around the Thanksgiving table due to natural disasters such as wildfires, floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and conflicts like the one taking place now in the Middle East. Let us spare a thought for those facing hardship during this season and include them in our prayers. May God bless you as you remember and pray.
With thankful heart,
Pastor Hannah
