Today across the United States we all come to a stop; there is a pause in our daily routine; most businesses are closed down and most people gather together with family and friends to give thanks and praise.
This is the moment we are called to be thoughtful. In the words of scripture, "thoughtfulness put flesh on his bones." Thoughtfulness keeps things real. In some sense, as we ponder the gifts we have received, we put flesh on the hand of God who wrought them all so that we might be where we are.
The proclamation that set aside this day was given at the hand of President Lincoln in 1863. In response to the progress of people in the land in light of the civil strife, President Lincoln spoke these words,
"they are the gracious gifts of the Most High God, who while dealing with us in anger for our sins, hath nevertheless remembered mercy. It seems to me fit and proper that they should be solemnly, reverently and gratefully acknowledged as with one heart and one voice by the whole American People...to set apart the last Thursday of November, as a day of Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens."
Thanksgiving and praise to God is the cure for all that ails. It gives us strength for the journey and clarity in out mission. It alleviates depression and gives us hope in despair. It is a shot of courage as the mystery of life unfolds. It keeps us focused in the trials that abound and opens our heart to the truth of God's love.
When we give thanks and praise we have what is necessary to "stand erect and raise our heads" as Jesus proclaims in the gospel, for we are able to recognize the hand of who wrought redemption in our lives.
Today we begin to habituate ourselves to thanksgiving and praise, a true sacrifice fitting for those who seek to follow in the footsteps of Christ, who at the last supper took the bread and cup and gave thanks and praise...
May we follow Christ in thanks and praise on earth so that we may be with him in heaven.
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