Give Thanks to God

"I give thanks to my God at every remembrance of you, praying always with joy in my every prayer for all of you, because of your partnership for the gospel from the first day until now. I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work in you will continue to complete it until the day of Christ Jesus." (Philippians 1:3-6) Saint Paul started almost all of his letters with thanksgiving and a prayer. What a wonderful way to begin everything—with prayerful thanksgiving!

Each year, we set aside time to celebrate the tradition of giving thanks for all that God has bestowed upon us. Thanksgiving is the day to celebrate with food and drink and to raise up to God all that is His. Each family, each ethnic culture, each neighborhood or parish has their own traditions within the larger celebration and are followed religiously each year to mark the harvest and give thanks. Beyond the United States, forms of Thanksgiving are celebrated yearly in almost every culture. Everyone has their own way of feasting, celebrating and thanking God.

For those who are alone at Thanksgiving, by circumstance or choice, and those who don't have a place to go, this day can be exceptionally sad. The good people throughout our great nation never, ever disappoint, however. Food pantries, shelters, meal programs, churches, even restaurants, step up and offer celebratory meals and gatherings—all are welcome, no questions asked. It must bring God great joy to see His children respond with such love.

To sustain these attitudes of gratitude throughout the rest of the year makes us wonder if Thanksgiving should be a monthly celebration. I think that if we look closely, however, we might get a glimpse of what God actually sees—daily acts of generosity and sharing involving millions of people in millions of ways. May we be inspired this Thanksgiving to reach out every day of the year with full and thankful hearts to all we encounter on our paths. A Blessed and Happy Thanksgiving to each of you!









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