George Washington wrote the first Presidential Thanksgiving Proclamation on November 26th 1789. He began his message by acknowledging God’s providence. He concluded that message by recognizing the Lord as the giver of national prosperity, and in between were no less than two dozen forceful references to the goodness of God. There was no doubt in Washington’s mind that the birth of this nation and its marvelous blessings were cause for deep gratitude to God.
The observance of Thanksgiving is rooted in our national heritage, but it has always been understood as directed toward God. Thanksgiving is a major theme in the Bible. It is my prayer that we will celebrate a wonderful Thanksgiving by keeping our thanks ever directed toward God.
The poet has said,
He who thanks but with his lips,
Thanks but in part;
The full, true Thanksgiving
Comes from the heart.
(author unknown)
Happy Thanksgiving! We’re thankful to God for you!
Pastor Mark & Robin
