Thanksgiving Day (USA)
Scripture:
Sirach 50:22-24
1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Luke 17:11-19
Reflection:
As we gather as a nation and a church today to give thanks for the bounty we enjoy, it is good to pause and reflect on all the ways God has blessed us. The scriptures on this Thanksgiving Day are filled with proclamations of praise and thanks to our God whose goodness knows no bounds. In the book of Sirach, we read, ‘And now, bless the God of all, who has done wondrous things on earth.’ This day will be filled with family and friends coming together to share laughter and stories, good food and a beverage or two. For many we will be even luckier to be with folks we haven’t seen maybe since last Thanksgiving. It is a time for all of us to count our blessings and say thank you.
In the Gospel of Luke we hear the familiar story of the ten lepers who were cured, but only one returned to give thanks. How often are we like those other nine who did not take the time to return and say thank you. We live in a fast-paced world whose focus is consumer driven and keeps everyone on the go. When was the last time you stopped and thanked that person who cleans the locker room you use frequently at the YMCA or the teen worker who packs your order at the fast food restaurant? I am reminded of a priest celebrant who regularly gives thanks in the intercessions for all those people who serve as support staff and labor tirelessly behind the scenes so that we can enjoy the comforts we do. His actions give me pause to reflect on how important it is to have an ATTITTUDE OF GRATITUDE in our families, parishes and communities.
May we resolve today after feasting to adopt a habit of gratitude as Paul says in 1Thessalonians, ‘in all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus. Let us celebrate every day as a "thanksgiving’ day.
Theresa Secord is a Pastoral Associate at St. Agnes Parish, Louisville, Kentucky.