Thanksgiving week is upon us. It is, of course, always
good and right to render unto our God thanks and
praise, but at this time of year here in the U.S., we
have, for some time, set aside the fourth Thursday of
every November as a special remembrance to give
thanks. It is celebrated by Christians and non-
Christians alike, but we, as Christ followers, know
where our thanks is due.
And how much more do we have to give thanks for than those settlers of Plymouth Colony some 400 years ago, who are credited with this tradition? I’m sure most of you know, but it does not hurt to recount, that they had a long, harrowing journey on the Mayflower, followed by a harsh and cruel winter in which 45 of the 102 perished. For perspective, our membership rolls contain just over 100.
But God, in His grace, reversed their fortunes that summer. That Autumn, the first Thanksgiving feast was celebrated as a thanks to God for the bountiful harvest. Though they were few in number, though they had been through many trials, they recognized God’s favor upon them. Their legacy continues to this day. So as we give thanks this week, remember to thank God for His favor upon you!