1 Thessalonians 5:18 (ESV)
Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of
God in Christ Jesus for you.
Known as the Mother of Thanksgiving, Sarah Josepha Hale was
born in 1788, a native of New Hampshire. She wrote several books, but is mostly
recognized as the poet who created the nursery rhyme about a girl named Mary
and her lamb, which you probably sung as a child.
What is not widely known about Sarah is how she campaigned
for 36 years to see the government declare a day solely dedicated to gratitude.
“At this season every family, almost, in our land has the comforts of life, and
nearly all have the hope and prospect of living thus comfortably through the
coming seasons.”
Scripture says we can offer thanksgiving as a sacrifice,
and doing so glorifies God. Being able to recognize God’s goodness, despite our
circumstances, is an act of worship which pays homage to his attributes--his
grace, patience, love, and provision.
Sarah Josepha Hale was an advocate of thanksgiving, and
became the catalyst for the United States implementing a day of gratitude as a
national holiday. While not everyone has the same benefits and comforts
afforded to others, as Christians, we can be challenged that whatever our
circumstances, Thanksgiving is a day in which we can offer worship to an
amazing, good and holy God.
God loves a thankful heart.
Dear Lord, help us to each have a thankful heart. Help us
to be thankful for the things that You have given us. In the Name of Jesus,
Amen.
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