The True Meaning of Thanksgiving

When we think of thanksgiving we often think about spending time with our loved ones, what we’re going to eat, the football game, or even the parade. Some may even think back to the feast of the natives and the pilgrims when they gathered together. But, thanksgiving dates back to biblical times. In Leviticus 7 the Israelites would offer a sacrifice of thanksgiving when they wanted to draw near to God. Unlike the other sacrifices, this particular sacrifice wasn’t mandatory but was out of a persons free will; as an act of worship. You see giving thanks is not something we have to do it’s something we get to do. This free willed offering was costly, what was required for this offering was valuable and took time to prepare. We don’t have to perform this sacrifice physically now but we should have this act of worship on our hearts. The cost that we bear is being able to lay our feelings to the side and thank God even though we are suffering, thanking God even though we’re dealing with sickness, even if I’m not where I want to be; thanking God that I’m not where I used to be. Giving thanks draws us near to God. 1 Chronicles 16:8-9 says, Give thanks to the Lord; call upon his name; proclaim his deeds among the people. Sing to him; Sing praise to him tell about all his wondrous works. 

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the goodness of God and all that he has done in our lives. This year let’s keep Him at the center. Remembering and honoring His great deeds together.

I want to end with reading Psalms 136, A Psalm of praise and thanksgiving remembering the things that God has done. As you read this chapter put in place of David’s words what the Lord has done for you. Happy Thanksgiving!