I call Thanksgiving the Forgotten Holiday. Retailers are so eager to get Christmas sales they overlook it, and worship leaders are so busy getting ready for Christmas they neglect it.
Thanksgiving: the Forgotten Holiday
In hard times when many people are unemployed, it might seen counterintuitive to give thanks—especially when you’re having trouble paying the light bill. But 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 says, “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
I’ve heard preachers refer to this as “Thank You Therapy” — when we’re thankful for the good things God has given us (try making a list), it’s a bit easier to weather the tough times.
My Dad passed away a few weeks before Thanksgiving several years ago, after battling cancer for months. The last time he had made it to church was Easter, where he heard me play the piano (he loved watching years of piano lessons pay off!). I had lunch with my Mom yesterday, and even though she’s doing well, it’s hard to lose your husband of 47 years.
