Thanksgiving

The cover of this week's bulletin has a picture of an overflowing cornucopia, indicating an abundant harvest. Paired with that is Psalm 34:8, “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good; Blessed is the man who trusts in Him! (NKJV)”
I think that this pairing is good for a few reasons. First, as we look at the overflowing fruits and vegetables, our minds race to a wonderful thanksgiving meal. I can almost taste the turkey and cranberry sauce … and then there’s the pumpkin and/or apple pie. Yum! My mouth is watering, how about yours.
Then, we read Psalm 34:8: “Oh taste and see that the Lord is good …” Have you tasted and seen that God is good? Or, put another way, have you experienced the goodness of God? I trust most of you have. That is what thanksgiving is all about … remembering the goodness of God and taking the time to give Him thanks.
It isn’t primarily about a family gathering, though we can and should enjoy that as God allows — and thank Him for that. It isn’t primarily about a large meal where most of us tend to overeat—though we can and should thank God for His provision, by which we can enjoy such a meal.
It IS primarily about God … and his provision for our needs, both physical and spiritual. He created us to be whole
beings, and cares about both the physical and spiritual. He provided salvation by grace alone, through faith alone, in Jesus Christ alone, and for that we should be eternally thankful.
Yet, he also cares for our physical needs. Sometimes he provides the income we need for our own sustenance. Sometimes He provides for our needs through others (family, church, assistance programs, etc.) We may not have it as well as we might like it, but basic shelter and food are core needs. And God provides, time and time again. Don’t forget to give Him thanks on this Thanksgiving and always!
In His grip,
Pastor Decker