“Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands. Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and to his courts with praise: be thankful unto him, and bless his name. For the LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations.” (Psalm 100:1 KJV)
Historically, Americans have traced this holiday celebration back to the pilgrims at Plymouth, Massachusetts. Yet, the Native account of that tradition is quite different from the history books. And the celebration wasn’t officially an American holiday until President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed a law on December 26, 1941, proclaiming the last Thursday of November a national Thanksgiving holiday.
Yet, despite the various controversies surrounding this holiday, it begins in the hearts of people who love God and recognize his work in their lives and circumstances. That is why, despite the circumstances, they make a joyful noise of gratitude unto God for all blessings.
Because of God, they gladly gather together with family and friends, singing about his presence. They recognize that He is God the Creator. They humbly acknowledge his work in their lives and gratefully praise him for his preservation through difficult times.
It is because God is good all the time that they are grateful and bless his name. It is because the truth of God is secure and his mercy is eternal that they make such a big deal of celebrating their gratitude and praise.
To those who love God, Thanksgiving Day is more than a national holiday. It is more than time off from the drudgery of work. It is more than food and fun and family time. Thanksgiving is a sabbath of joy and song and praise and gratitude for the goodness of God bestowed upon his people.
Thanksgiving is a love song.
Dear Father, thank you for your goodness to us. We do not deserve it yet you give it freely. Empower us with grace to proclaim our love that others might see it and glorify you. This I pray in the name of Jesus. AMEN
Be encouraged today with a thanksgiving love song,