GIVING THANKS
Here’s an article that I submitted to The Hamilton News for publication this week:
Over the next few days we’ll probably eat pretty well. Thanksgiving Day is a special occasion in America even for those who aren’t thankful. The old preacher Harry A. Ironsides was once sitting next to a stranger in a restaurant. When his food arrived, he bowed his head to give thanks.
The stranger interrupted him, “One of those, huh? I work hard for my money. When my food comes, I just dig right in”.
“Yes,” replied Ironsides, “I have a dog that does that, too.”
The main difference between animals and humans is that humans have the capability to relate to God through the Spirit. Animals do not.
In the Gospel of John chapter 6 there is a story of Jesus feeding a crowd of 5,000 with five small barley loaves and two small fish. Verse 11 says, “Jesus then took the loaves, gave thanks, and distributed to those who were seated as much as they wanted. He did the same with the fish”.
After the meal was finished, His disciples gathered up twelve baskets of leftovers for another day. The Bible clearly called that a “miraculous sign” that convinced many that Jesus was the Prophet.
The next day people came from all around to see this Jesus who had performed the miraculous sign. John 6:23 records, “Then some boats from Tiberias landed near the place where the people had eaten the bread after the Lord had given thanks.”
Note that John connected the miraculous provision to the Lord giving thanks. Perhaps there’s more to giving thanks that a quick prayer before we dig in. Perhaps thanksgiving is a heart attitude recognizing God as our Provider.
What might happen if we were not intimidated by our unbelieving Uncle Charlie, and lead a sincere prayer of thanks to God for His abundant provision this Thanksgiving? I suggest we give it a shot before we enjoy the bounty. Perhaps a miracle will follow.
Tags: thanksgiving