Remembering Thanksgiving

This year seems to have gone by in a flash. We welcomed the coming of this year, making resolutions of change, but in almost an instant, Memorial Day, the 4th of July, even Labor Day came before our eyes. From January to August, we seemed to enjoy most of every part of the year, lows and highs, but somewhere after Labor Day and before Halloween (I don't celebrate Halloween), we transition from celebrating the year to wishing that it was all over.

Our culture has programmed many of us to skip over this one special holiday, going right into the lights and festivities of Christmas. This isn't to say that Christmas is bad at all; However, in a world filled with much confusion, despair and grief, I believe that it's more than important for us as believers to remember Thanksgiving (and I'm not just talking about the holiday).

Here's three reasons why we should remember Thanksgiving:

1. Thanksgiving is a time for us to enjoy the presence of God: Yes, this can happen at any time, and on any day of the week, but through purposefully taking time to mediated on God's Word, we're able to truly praise and thank God for all He's done in and through our lives.

2. Thanksgiving is a moment for praise and worship rendered to God: The word thanksgiving means an expression of gratitude, especially to God. Through our praises to God, we offer God our undying love and service for all that He's done for us. Through our worship of God, we recognize the splendor of God's majesty and supreme authority, knowing that He holds all things in existence for His purpose and glory. 

3. The Lord's mercies endure forever: Psalm 89:1 states, "I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever, with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations." It is by God's grace and mercy that we're still here today. If you're still breathing, God isn't done with you yet. Allow this day, season, and everyday to compel you to share the Gospel to family members and friends.

Thanksgiving Day is right among us, but remember the meaning and reasons to embrace it for God's glory in everyday.

SDG