Give Thanks

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 Seemingly overnight the retail establishments have swiftly replaced the Halloween merchandise with Christmas wares, once again bypassing a very important observance. This observance is one that I believe involves volition and purpose. Looking at the scriptures about thanksgiving seem to connect giving thanks with action. Psalm 116:17 says, “I will OFFER to you the SACRIFICE of thanksgiving, and will CALL upon the name of the Lord.” 

A pastor colleague used to say that worshipers in the Old Testament ALWAYS brought an offering when they came before the Lord. This involved ACTION. The psalmist likened thanksgiving to a sacrifice. This involved ACTION. And people called out to the Lord — they prayed, and this involved ACTION!

About twenty years ago, I enrolled in Spanish classes at Butler County Community College and Slippery Rock University to help me to be able to communicate more effectively on mission trips to Guatemala and Nicaragua. I have to admit, a 50 year-old matriculating with 18-20 year-olds was definitely different, although I was cordially welcomed among them. 

One of the things I learned spoke voluminously to me. The Spanish translation of Thanksgiving Day is “el día de acción de gracias,” meaning “the day of ACTION of thanks.” Isn’t that a great way to describe GIVING thanks? This involves ACTION. 

Before we skip over Thanksgiving, being caught up in the Christmas carols, shopping, and other preparations, let’s remember to ACTIVELY GIVE THANKS. This involves ACTION. I think we would benefit.

Just a reflection of a retired pastor.

Comments

  1. Lew KingNovember 16, 2024 at 6:33 AM

    I get frustrated that our culture seems to gravitate from Halloween directly to Christmas. One of my sons put his tree up a week ago. He loves Christmas and I’m proud of him for that. The consolation is that I know he is also a very thankful person and grateful. I still gave him a hard time. Thanks Ron for the gentle reminder. We truly need to be continually grateful for all that the Lord has done and is doing in our lives. Have a Happy Thanksgiving!

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