From the Pastor
Thanksgiving can be a beautiful holiday to enjoy with loved ones. For some, family is scattered or estranged, so Friendsgiving brings the warmth of shared company and meal. It’s a complicated holiday because of the origin story, which doesn’t accurately reflect the truth. And the subsequent history of Native American marginalization makes us rightly hesitant to add any insult to the injury of the past.
Yet, the day is much simpler and better than that. Many cultures over the millenia have had autumn harvest celebrations to enjoy the bounty the earth provides and give thanks for it. Our holiday is not much different. The wonderful Thanksgiving feast made up of food, family, and friends, remind us that we have abundant gifts from God. We are filled with gratitude that wells up as we gather to share a joyful meal.
I hope your Thanksgiving holiday this year is a joyful one and you are filled with some kind of holy gratitude — yes, even in these trying times, even when not everyone at the table shares the same beliefs.
I am sharing this psalm of gratitude for you to ponder this week. If you struggle to find the words to express your thanksgiving, perhaps this psalm can be a guide.
— Pastor Michael Coffey
Great is the LORD, and greatly to be praised; his greatness is unsearchable. One generation shall laud your works to another, and shall declare your mighty acts. On the glorious splendor of your majesty, and on your wondrous works, I will meditate. The might of your awesome deeds shall be proclaimed, and I will declare your greatness. They shall celebrate the fame of your abundant goodness, and shall sing aloud of your righteousness. The LORD is gracious and merciful, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love. The LORD is good to all, and his compassion is over all that he has made. All your works shall give thanks to you, O LORD, and all your faithful shall bless you. They shall speak of the glory of your kingdom, and tell of your power, to make known to all people your mighty deeds, and the glorious splendor of your kingdom. Your kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and your dominion endures throughout all generations. The LORD is faithful in all his words, and gracious in all his deeds. The LORD upholds all who are falling, and raises up all who are bowed down. The eyes of all look to you, and you give them their food in due season. You open your hand, satisfying the desire of every living thing. The LORD is just in all his ways, and kind in all his doings. The LORD is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desire of all who fear him; he also hears their cry, and saves them.
Psalm 145