Consider the wisdom of this American proverb, “Be thankful if your life is a little harder than you like. A knife can’t be sharpened on a piece of velvet.” Hi, I’m Tom Ellsworth from Sherwood Oaks Christian Church with a minute message.
At Thanksgiving, we rightly focus on the good things in our lives but anybody can be thankful for the blessings. It’s when we learn to express gratitude for life’s difficult moments that Thanksgiving takes on new meaning. Of the 102 Pilgrims who journeyed to the New World, only 53 survived the year to celebrate that first harvest in Plymouth colony. Nearly 50 graves dotted the hillside as a reminder of their tragic loses so it is no surprise that some thought a day of fasting and prayer was in order. Others, however, reflected that they had much to celebrate; the land was abundant and best of all they had found liberty. So they celebrated and feasted for 3 days; reflecting on their difficulties as well as rejoicing in their blessings.
Life isn’t a piece of velvet. So, as you celebrate this grand American holiday, remember to do so in the spirit of that first Thanksgiving. For everything that happens in your life, give thanks to God!