ALT-1 Purpose of Thanksgiving
The Bible tells us to give thanks in all circumstances. The truth is this is often easier said than done. Yet at least once a year we take time to do just this, give thanks regardless of our circumstances. Moreover, it is a time for us to make some effort to insure that others can do the same. We give thanks by giving to those who are less fortunate than ourselves.
Thanksgiving Day in the United States, as legend and history tell us, arose from the desire of the Pilgrims to give thanks to God that they had survived their first hard winter in their new land. Consequently our current celebrations call us to give thanks for the privilege of living in this great country.
Legend also recalls the support and cooperation that Native Americans gave those early settlers. Historically, our fore fathers were more apt to kill than thank the Indians. However, today Thanksgiving is also a time to give thanks to Native Americans and to give thanks for a country rich in cultural diversity.
Over the years Thanksgiving has taken on other purposes. It is of course a time to take off from work. For most it is a time to gather with family and friends and share a big meal. Sports fans look forward to football games while children of all ages enjoy watching the parades.
Thanksgiving is also the calm before the storm of Black Friday, the day after, when every store hopes you will come and help them get their books into the black.
In the midst of all these activities we hope the theme of Thanks remains. We hope also the one to whom thanks is do is not forgotten. The Pilgrims were, after all, Christians who came here seeking religious freedom. Thus, although it may often be overlooked, the rock bottom reason for thanksgiving is to recall the blessings we have to worship as we please and give thanks to God. Whatever our circumstances may be, rich or poor, healthy or sick, with family or alone, in this country we can worship God as we understand him to be and in the manner of our choosing, without persecution. For this we ought indeed to be truly thankful.
So in between drumsticks and downs, after pumpkin pie and before naps, take time to give thanks to God and remember that it is a great privilege that not all people are able to share.
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