Thursday is Thanksgiving Day. Abraham Lincoln established a national day of thanks in 1863 during the American Civil War.
The Union victories at Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, and Vicksburg, Mississippi, were causes for rejoicing in the north, but these triumphs were in July. By November, the war had stagnated, and I’m sure the whole country struggled with frustration and despair.
President Lincoln’s proclamation reminded Americans that God is good and there is always something to be grateful for, even in the worst circumstances.
When I imagine the first Thanksgiving, it warms my heart to picture Pilgrims and Indians sharing their famous meal together. I always imagine a warm, sunny day, lots of good food, and smiles. I’m glad that some of the first settlers in America were Christians and that they actually lived peacefully alongside their Wampanoag neighbors.
I’m grateful that Thanksgiving is largely untouched by commercialism. Pillsbury, Libby’s, and Butterball prosper as a result of this holiday, but it’s not a day the world system can really exploit.
Yeah, I know, lots of people eat their turkey while watching a man throw a very important ball as other burly men launch themselves at each other.
Others have to work. I’ve been spoiled my entire life. I’ve never had to work on Thanksgiving. I feel especially sorry for servers. I know people who like to eat out on Thanksgiving. But maybe they can opt to bake a turkey breast and whip up some Stovetop stuffing instead this year.
I’m always glad to see restaurants announce they’re giving their staff the day off to spend with their families.
Thanksgiving is one of the most special days of the year for me. I think there are really only five holy days in the year. I observe the sabbath every Sunday, mind you, but as far as holidays, I can boil it down to five: Good Friday, Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, and Christmas.
I sense a difference in the air on those days. Honoring events that remind us of Jesus and gratitude creates a sense of the sacred. I feel something missing from my life the day after a holiday. I’m looking forward to that spiritual presence on Thursday.
When I think of what I’m thankful for this year, my mom’s health tops the list. She had a heart scare in October that terrified me. Praise God, it was a simple medication side effect, and she’s off the beta blocker now. I’m so grateful she’s okay.
My daughter, Beth, earning a spot on the JV volleyball team is right up there, too. She worked so hard for four months conditioning, practicing her overhand serve, and attending scheduled practices. They had a great season at Jamestown: 13-4, which for a little school like ours is quite an achievement.
My son’s and dad’s relationship is so precious to my heart, too. They work together several times a week on Aaron’s go-kart, which is the most temperamental machine I’ve ever seen. It breaks down almost every time Aaron rides it. But instead of feeling frustrated he and Dad are excited for the chance to repair it together.
I’m thankful I got to visit Shiloh National Military Park with my mom in October, had three more devotionals published, and only had a four-week depressive episode this year, as opposed to a 12-week episode in 2017. I’m also glad I’ve grown closer to God and have a deeper understanding of His will.
I hope you make a list of how God has blessed you this year. Stick it on your fridge and use it as a reminder to thank God for at least one of these gifts every day.
May God bless you and your loved ones this Thanksgiving.