I wrote the following article a couple of years ago. As I reflected on it this week, it seems like an appropriate thought, given how 2020 has shaped up to be, arguably, the most trying year in this generation’s memory.

The holiday that we in America know as Thanksgiving is upon us. The day that our government set aside over 150 years ago as a time to thank our Creator for His generosity and favor. As a time to remember those original settlers, 400 years ago, who battled harsh winter and would have certainly perished, but for the sympathy and generosity of the native tribes. We will do all this while sitting around fancy tables with more food than can possibly be consumed, with heaters or fireplaces going, posh living conditions, and football on our televisions.

Please do not take that last sentence as a cynical rant, because I assure you that it is not. Thinking about the upcoming holidays this week, I am impressed by how difficult it is to have a true appreciation for something I have never experienced. Thanksgiving, as our history and legends portray, evolved as an outpouring of gratitude from those who had evaded certain death at the hands of starvation, hypothermia, and inadequate housing. The fact that they had been spared from these things enabled their thankfulness to pour out in excess. Now, most who read these words must admit that we do not know the first thing about being truly hungry or cold. Is that a problem? No…it is part of the great blessing of being who we are, where we are, and when we are.

Yet, in my humble opinion, it makes the occasion so much more meaningful when we attempt to contemplate our circumstances and sympathize with those who are not so fortunate. To “put ourselves in their shoes” and try to understand how blessed we are to be spared from so much hardship. To acknowledge that any day and any number of events could mean that we may suddenly be forced to deal with it ourselves.

This Thanksgiving, may we not just to lift a thankful prayer to our God for the things we have. Rather, this year, may we offer thanks for the things we do NOT have to endure because of His gracious care and provision. And may our gratitude be so great that it will overflow into prayers, sympathy, and action for those who are enduring such things.

For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor. No good thing does he withhold from those who walk uprightly.

– Psalm 84:11 –

Cory Waddell