Across more than 40 years of preaching, I always struggled with the question of the Thanksgiving sermon–especially which Sunday to consider “Thanksgiving Sunday” It may seem obvious to think of the Sunday after Thanksgiving (concluding the Thanksgiving weekend) as “Thanksgiving Sunday”, but at least two problems arise. First, attendance is often lower due to holiday travels. Second, Thanksgiving has come and gone and most people have already moved past any desire to consider the attitudes of gratitude. Thus, my general approach was to use the Sunday before Thanksgiving (at the beginning of Thanksgiving week) as Gratitude Sunday.
The truth is that developing a heart of generosity and gratitude is appropriate at any time. As the Thanksgiving weekend winds down, here are a few questions.
How and why has God blessed me? Why was I born where and when I was? How can I fully comprehend and appreciate the truth: “There but for the grace of God go I?” In a world where blessings often distinguish us from others and set us apart (above?), what blessings cause me to identify with humanity rather than separating me from humanity? How can I pass on God’s goodness to me?
If you have not taken time over the past few days to consider such basic questions, why not include these reflections in today’s devotional or meditations as you worship God?