I have always admired the art of Norman Rockwell. He expressed so well the fabric of life in a America in his time. It's hard not to warm to his images of Thanksgiving.
But long before him, our first President framed it so well, perhaps none of us can add to the wisdom of his thoughts on Thanksgiving. Can I offer it to you as a worthwhile expression of thanks that would be helpful to reflect on as Thanksgiving day draws near?
Giving Thanks for Thanks Giving
“Whereas, it is the duty of all nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey His will, to be grateful for His benefits, and humbly to implore His protection and favor; Whereas, both the houses of Congress have, by their joint committee, requested me “to recommend to the people of the United States a day of public thanksgiving and prayer, to be observed by acknowledging with grateful hearts the many and signal favors of Almighty God, especially by affording them an opportunity peaceably to establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.”
Now therefore, I do recommend next, to be devoted by the people of the states to the service of that great and glorious being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be, that we may then all unite in rendering unto Him our sincere and humble thanks for His kind care and protection of the people of this country.”
George Washington, 1779
What struck me as I read this the first time was the clear focus on God and on prayer. I was remined that when we are thankful, we honor the Source of our thanks: the Living God. But we also take note of the vision of good men and women who saw the power of thanksgiving to shape the human heart with humble thanks to God. So as we pray during these days, let us thank God for all He is and all He has provided for us in this land.
...just thinkling
