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The celebration of Thanksgiving is, for many Americans, both a public and religious holiday. It was established in the United States of America for the purpose of giving thanks to God for his goodness to us.
There remains, whether consciously or unconsciously, in the souls of the American people an instinctive appreciation of the providence of God. The abundant produce of our fields, the beautiful changing of the seasons, the warmth of our homes, the nearness of loved ones and the air of freedom which we breathe speak to us of a benevolent God.
Last month, driving down tranquil country roads bedecked with the splendor of the autumn leaves, catching glimpses of local farmers bringing in this year's bountiful harvest, were not your hearts like mine moved to rejoice at the manifold blessings around you?
This past week, family members drove long distances to gather around dinner tables, celebrating Thanksgiving with loved ones, while savoring the delicious fruits of the earth.
There are those among us whose thoughts of loved ones are saddened by their absence, but they, too, have something to give thanks for as they remember the happiness of years past.
Interestingly, Eucharist, which happens to be the term most Christians use in reference to our celebration of the Lord's Supper, is from an ancient Greek word "eucharistia" meaning "thanksgiving." What a marvelous parallel.
We Americans have been gathering around our Thanksgiving tables giving thanks to God for his blessings much as Christians through the centuries have gathered around the Eucharistic table giving thanks to God for the blessing He bestowed on humanity in Jesus, His son, the Bread of Life.
This is also a time for us to be mindful of the young men and women of our country serving in foreign lands away from their families, keeping aggressors at bay, so that we might continue to live in peace. Let our prayers of Thanksgiving to God also include them, asking Him to keep them safe so that they may return home to enjoy the fruits of this land of peace and bounty.
Let us not overlook in our celebration our less fortunate brothers and sisters. If we are truly grateful, we should make provisions for them out of the bountiful blessings which we have received, sharing the good gifts of God.
The people of our nation truly have so much to be thankful for, even in difficult times. May we never fail to give thanks to Him who has given us so much.
Let us give thanks to God.
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Finding Faith is written by area pastors. This week's column comes from Rev. Fr. Joseph Orr of Holy Spirit Catholic Parish, Lock Haven.