Old images and myths die hard because they serve a useful purpose in the way we look at the world. Most of what we know about the First Thanksgiving comes from a letter written by Edward Winslow, one of the 102 who sailed on the Mayflower to what we now know as Plymouth Colony. It was actually a three-day celebration of the harvest and probably occurred sometime between the end of September and the beginning of November.
Lincoln fixed the date as the last Thursday in 1863, in the midst of the terrible civil war, as a day not of feasting and parades but one of Thanksgiving and Prayer to Almighty God offering up our thanks for survival as well as prayers of penitence for “our national perverseness and disobedience.”
As we commemorate this day, we must remember how our forbearers treated the Native Americans they found here as well as the lofty ideals that brought them here. The desire for religious freedom and a new way of governance are part of the stock we cook. Refugees and immigrants seeking freedom and opportunity are essential to what we have become and our future. We need to reclaim the best part of the myth and strive to live up to what we should be.
Prayer for the Day
God of field and forest, of sea and land, we are thankful
For the wonder of life and the beauty of your creation;
As we reflect on our bounty, O God, let us not forget those who have little
Those who cannot see your grace or find your mercy in their lives
At this time in our lives, grant us wisdom and courage
To make us instruments of your mercy and grace.
In the name of the One who welcomes all
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Gratitude is the inward feeling of kindness received. Thankfulness is the natural impulse to express that feeling. Thanksgiving is the following of that impulse.
Henry Van Dyke, American author, clergyman, diplomat (1852-1933)
The best and most beautiful things in the world cannot be touched or seen – they must be felt with the heart.
Helen Keller, deaf-blind educator and activist (1880-1968)
O give thanks to the Lord, call on God’s name and make known God’s deeds among all
Sing praises to God, sing pauses to God and tell of all God’s wonderful works.
Psalm 105: 1-2