John 6:25-35

“Then Jesus said to them, ‘Very truly, I tell you, it was not Moses who gave you the bread from heaven, but it is my Father who gives you the true bread from heaven.’” vs. 32

As the years pass each major holiday seems to acquire a unique identity, and that’s certainly true for Thanksgiving. For most Americans this is a day for coming together as families, maybe watching a little football, and then gorging on a multi-course meal that is bound to include turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberries. Occasionally, depending upon how many health conscious folks will be present, there will be creative variations on the old favorites. Sometimes there will even be a prayer, one that will recount the blessings of the year and perhaps offer thanks to God as the author and giver of life. Thanksgiving really is a good time for all of us to express deep gratitude for all that we have and are. Too often we get so caught up in the economies of our materialistic system that we actually forget the divine origin of all our bread. Like the people Jesus fed we eat and are satisfied, and then ask for more, sometimes never pausing to give praise and thanks for all that we have received. Perhaps this year we can do better than that! We’ve come through some trying times, and we’re actually doing pretty well. There is much to be thankful for–and God will be glad to hear from us!

Thought for the Day: What Thanksgiving traditions am I observing today?