Thanksgiving Day is a distinctive holiday. It doesn't commemorate a battle or anyone's birthday or anniversary. It is simply a day set aside to express our nation's thanks to our nation's God
Alex Haley, the author of "Roots," had an unusual picture hanging on his office wall. It was a picture of a turtle on top of a fence post. When asked, "Why is that there?" Alex Haley answered, "Every time I write something significant, every time I read my words & think that they are wonderful, & begin to feel proud of myself, I look at the turtle on top of the fence post & remember that he didn't get there on his own. He had help."
The basis of thankfulness to remember is that we got here with the help of God, and He is the provider of every blessing we've obtain to this day.
The 100th Psalm was written for the people of Israel. God said to them, "When you come into the promised land, and settle down in your warm homes, and you have plenty to eat, don't forget Me. I led you out of the wilderness and I brought you into a land flowing with milk and honey."
But it doesn't take very long to realize that the people of Israel needed a reminder. I am afraid that we need it, too.
Maybe God had us in mind, also, when this Psalm was written. Notice to whom it is addressed. The first verse says that it is addressed to "all the earth," and the last verse says that it includes "all generations." This message of thanksgiving is so deep and wide that it applies to every person in every era in every stage of life.
On Thursday we will be gathering with our families and hopefully we will remember to do more than eat a meal and watch football or make a mad dash for the mall. God wants nothing more than for us to be people of thanksgiving and gratitude. So, remember to count your blessings with an attitude of gratitude.
My prayer is it will be a meaningful Thanksgiving season for you and all your family.
Blessings!
Irene Garibay, Chaplain
Northeast Methodist Hospital
