Tag Archives: thanksgiving

March 18
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Uncategorized Aside

“Is anyone happy? Let them sing songs of praise.” (James 5:13b, NIV)

James reminds us that the rhythm of a disciple’s life is not all labor and toil.  There are many periods of happiness and joy.  

As we ought to run to God when trouble arrives, we ought also to give thanks to God when our path is smooth, the weather is fair, and we are at peace with our neighbors.  

The natural person attributes the presence of these things to many sources other than to God, such as luck, one’s personal knowledge or skill, or the favor of others. The disciple sees only God (even when God is acting through others) as the source of all blessings.  

James recommends this response: Praise God in song.  Indeed, “praise God from Whom all blessings flow; praise Him all creatures here below. . . ”  – Luther

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November 28
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Thanksgiving Day

“. . . give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18, NIV)

There is a small, but helpfully significant, difference between giving thanks in all circumstances; and giving thanks for all circumstances.

There are situations and circumstances for which you and I should never be thankful: War, disease, marital discord, gross economic inequality, the persistence of evil. . .  Yet, even in such circumstances, the disciple of Jesus is encouraged to be thankful — and it baffles the watching world.

In war, we know the Prince of Peace. In sickness, we are attended by the Great Physician. He is our Reconciler; and through your and my obedience, He feeds the poor. Evil may, for a time, persist; but evil shall never prevail!

In today’s celebration of Thanksgiving Day, remember that true thanksgiving knows no season.  – Luther

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