Thursday of the Thirty-fourth Week in Ordinary Time—Thanksgiving
Today’s readings for Thanksgiving Day focus on praise and gratitude for all that God has done. Even Jesus reminds us of the importance of giving thanks in today’s gospel. Our many blessings bring us joy, and we are called to remember these gifts have been given to us, so that we can share them with others.
All of the readings remind us of the many ways that God nurtures us. God “fosters” our growth from our mothers’ womb, and provides joy and peace. The grace of God through Christ Jesus provides us the spiritual gifts that we need to stay faithful on our spiritual journey. The gospel reading illustrates how Jesus offers healing to those who are in need. All of these blessings are given out of God’s love and compassion.
Although this day is particularly set apart to express gratitude, how much of the giving “thanks” is lost amidst the turkey, pumpkin pie, and footballs games on the television?
Many years ago I found this prayer that I place on each of the tables where Thanksgiving dinner is shared. It is a small way for me to remind myself and those sharing the meal to stop and reflect on life, blessings, and our call to serve.
Oh, Heavenly Father,
We thank thee for food and
remember the hungry.
We thank thee for health and
remember the sick.
We thank thee for freedom and
remember the enslaved.
May these remembrances stir
us to service,
that thy gifts to us may be
used for others.
Amen
Today, take time to remember the many blessings that you have been given and give thanks and praise to God for these gifts. Ask God to give you grace, so you can know how best to share what you have with others in need. May this gratefulness open our hearts, so we can live lives of generosity and love as Disciples of Christ. AMEN
—Marylynn Herchline