It is hard to believe that Thanksgiving Day is upon us. Thanksgiving was first celebrated in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621 after a bountiful harvest. The early settlers endured harsh conditions where hundreds of people died due to famine and disease. So obviously, for these people to have the ability to harvest a large crop was enough to celebrate. It was their way to honor the Lord, who provided them life-sustaining provisions.

Are we as grateful for the provisions the Lord gives us today? In a time where we can go to the local supermarket to gather a harvest, we do not thank God enough. Too often, we fail to recognize the multitude of ways that the Lord has blessed us. At times, it almost seems like we just expect the Lord to bless us, as if God owes us.

Scripture tells us in Psalm 118: 1-5, “Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures forever! Let Israel say, ‘His steadfast love endures forever.’ Let the house of Aaron say, ‘His steadfast love endures forever.’ Let those who fear the Lord say, ‘His steadfast love endures forever.’ Out of my distress I called on the Lord; the Lord answered me and set me free.”

This Thanksgiving, make it a priority to thank and honor a Lord who provides for us in spite of our imperfections, a God whose love for us is so great that He would sacrifice everything on your and my behalf, a Lord who deserves our gratitude and affection.

May the Lord keep you and bless you.

Forever grateful,

Steve