November 26, 2021
When Puritans made the decision to take their families out of England and head to a different continent, they had a dangerous journey ahead. They had to travel by ship across a rough ocean. Their difficulties didn't end when they made it to a new shore. The only civilizations around were unfamiliar people with customs and languages they didn't understand. This "new world" they had come to was very different. The plants and animals were different. Those who made it across the ocean were not prepared for the harsh winter that would soon arrive. Surviving that first year was truly a blessing from the Lord. Therefore, they gathered to give thanks because they were truly thankful for their survival.
Thanksgiving should be a continuous practice, not just one day once a year. We are told in Colossians 3:15-17, "And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him." The Church should be continually thankful and reminding one another of the reason for our thanks. We have been redeemed and saved from our sins. God has extended His mercy and grace to undeserving sinners. This is the ultimate reason to give thanks!
Thankfulness does not always come easy. When things go well or we have blessings come our way it is easy to feel thankful. However, sometimes we are dealing with difficult circumstances or the loss of a loved one. It is difficult to feel thankful in the midst of grief. Holidays and traditions can make that loss feel even greater. Yet, we are told in 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18, "Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you." The apostle Paul was put through some pretty crazy circumstances, and yet still says he learned to be content. The Church should be understanding of those who are facing a period when thanksgiving is hard. They should mourn with those who mourn and help them to give thanks in their circumstances.
Do you cultivate your mind to be thankful? This is something that I often struggle with due to my own selfishness. I would rather complain when things don't go my way than be thankful for all that I have. I should be thankful for healthy kids rather than complaining about a needy toddler. I need to focus on Christ and all that He has done for me rather than myself and my own desires and be thankful.
We don't need a holiday to be thankful. Thanksgiving should be a daily thing. So whether you are a shopper searching for the best deal or quietly spending some time at home, be thankful. If you are struggling to be thankful, go to fellow believers for encouragement, exhortation, and reminders of God's amazing grace and love, and give thanks.