Happy Thanksgiving

One of my seminary professors regularly insisted that the only difference between a “believer” and a “non-believer” is the ability to give thanks.

In other words, a person of faith knows the source of blessing and is able to recognize the gift and say “thank you.”  A non-believer can be a very nice person, be polite and kind, and even a good neighbor, but is completely unaware of the source of all that they have received.

Now, I would also say that a person of faith can live a life of faith, and be part of a community of faith, and pray for and support that community, and can also tell others about blessings received and promises kept.

But I think my seminary professor makes a good point.

To be thankful is to be aware of what we have received – both how much and how often.

I am daily aware of the gifts that I have received. With Luther in his explanation to the First Article of the Creed, “I believe that God has created me together with all that exists.  God has given me and still preserves my body and soul; eyes, ears, and all limbs and senses; reason and all mental faculties In addition, God daily and abundantly provides me . . .  .” And he goes on to list everything that I need for daily life.

Sometimes at our table at Thanksgiving, just before we tear into that Turkey, we go around the table at say at least one thing that we are thankful for. Give it a try this year!

People of faith are thankful to God for the gift of new life and salvation given to us in Jesus Christ. To be thankful is to recognize the source of our gifts. 

I am thankful to God for the gift of Jesus Christ. I am thankful to serve in a congregation that regularly finds new ways to give thanks. And I am thankful for all of you – because you continue to teach me about God’s love.

Happy Thanksgiving,

Pastor John D. Morris, Senior Pastor