Thanksgiving is a Word of Action T


By Dot McCoy


 a fall harvest one year after the Pilgrims arrived in Massachusetts. After a rough winter, they turned to neighboring Indians for help. The Indians taught them how to plant corn


and other crops. The bountiful harvest inspired the Pilgrims to give thanks by holding the feast. This feast became a na-  their freedom still inspires us.  potatoes, pumpkin pie and other good food. Before the meal begins, many families and friends pause to give thanks for their blessings, including the joy of being together for the occasion. In 1863, shortly after President Abraham Lincoln committed his life to Christ and while we were still in the middle of the Civil War, he issued a proclamation which led to the establishment of the U.S. National Thanksgiving Holiday. It is celebrated the fourth Thursday in November. Many families travel great distances to be together. Some people say it is the most observed holiday of the year. The ancient Greeks, Romans, Hebrews, Chinese and Egyptians all held harvest festivals and thanksgiving celebrations which continue today in many forms. Many of the nations and cultures celebrate the harvest, but call them by different names and celebrate in many different ways. The true meaning of Thanksgiving should not end after a prayer or a few minutes of meditation devoted to thanks. Thanksgiving is a call to action! Through the holiday of Thanksgiving, we are reminded to give thanks and share our material wealth, and also to share our time and talents with other people who could use our help. Perhaps you could take  of a way to free up one hour each week to help someone in need?


Dot McCoy was the Women’s Ministries Spiritual Life Chair of First ARP Church in Statesville, NC when this was originally printed in the church newsletter.


Tanks Giving Means Tanks Living November/December 2019 27


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