Week of November 20, 2000
Debbie B.

"Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. Do not quench the Spirit."
     1 Thessalonians 5:17 -20

In 1789 through the recommendation of both Houses of Congress, George Washington proclaimed to the people of the United States Thursday, November 26th 1789, ". . . . a day of public Thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God,. . . . ."Long before George Washington made this proclamation to the people of the United States of America, Paul made a stronger proclamation to the people of God in Thessalonika. In his letter to the Thessalonians Paul proclaims that every day, in fact every minute of every day should be for the purpose of prayer and thanksgiving. Paul implores us to "pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances;. . .", and he emphasized that this proclamation is the will of Almighty God.

This Thursday, just as generations of Americans have done before us, we will gather around the table and gives thanks to God for our many blessings. We will bow our heads together as families, friends, and neighbors and with grateful hearts we will thank our Creator for the many good and amazing things that have touched our lives since we last gathered together. Births, healings, job security, new relationships, marriages, freedom, safety, happiness, and many other wonderful things that we will raise up to God before we share the thanksgiving feast. As Christians, however, we must reach beyond this one day, and we must carry forth into each new day, and in each unique circumstance that spirit of thanksgiving. Just as Paul urges the Thessalonians to pray without ceasing, and give thanks in all circumstances, we are also called to pray and give thanks even when we are confronted by pain, death, illness, divorce, and evil. Even when we are angry with God because of our circumstances we are implored not to quench the Spirit. We must at all times give thanks to God for Jesus Christ, who laid down his life for each of us so that we might live in the grace of God forever and ever.

Dear Lord, "Help us to remember at all times and
in all places to praise your glorious name." Amen.

Contributed by Debra B.
Published Monday November 20, 2000
Week 52 of Liturgical Year C