Doug Overbey (The Herald/Joe King)

Dear Friends,

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time of year. The vibrant colored leaves, crisp autumn temperatures, vast array of foods steeped in tradition, and warmth of family and friends add to this time of celebration. It also marks the beginning of Advent and the Christmas holidays, which means sometimes it comes without sufficient recognition regarding its religious and historic significance.

The pilgrims were driven by faith and devotion in journeying to this strange new world in search of religious freedom. It is hard for many of us to understand the sacrifices made as they endured hardships like hunger and seeing their families and friends stricken by disease. They still took time, however, to thank God for His blessings. The first Thanksgiving was a celebration in recognition of God’s grace and provision for seeing them through difficult times.

Although we do not face the same trials as the pilgrims, it is just as important to take a day of reflection and give thanks for our many blessing. As Colossians 2:7 puts it, “Let your lives overflow with thanksgiving to God for all He has done.” At the same time, it is important that we remember those who are enduring hardships of many kinds and our friends and family members who have gone on before.

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