Wednesday, November 25, 2020

November 26 - Thursday prior to Advent 1 – National Thanksgiving




Mark 13:33-37 -Watch for Jesus’ unexpected coming. Because the time of Christ’s return is unknown, we must watch for Him. In this brief lesson the word “watch” is used four times. Twice Jesus says, “You do not know when the time will come.” This fact is the reason for being on the alert. The emphasis is laid on Jesus’ return as sudden and unexpected.

There is no place here for speculation when the time of the return of Christ will be. It is an exhortation to be ready whenever He comes. Since no one knows the time, it is necessary for the faithful to look for Him every day. The mood of Advent is not speculation but joyful anticipation of the Lord’s return. Be on the alert for the sudden, unannounced coming of Christ.

Today is Thanksgiving. The first National thanksgiving was enacted by President Lincoln in the midst of bloody civil war -1863. This parish has never missed thanksgiving neither shall we miss this years’ however strange it may be. This community has faced numerous challenges; a pandemic one-hundred years ago, fierce wars, economic hard times, poor crops, severe storms. We’ve also witnessed much bounty and numerous blessings. Through the passing of time we were born, went to school, were confirmed, married, had our children, focused on our career and entered into retirement.

We make it the habit of marking time. It helps us remain connected to what has happened in the past and it gives us some sort of indicator by which to predict the future. Yet, we worship a Savior who is timeless, who has prepared for us a place where there is no time. As we recall the changes and changes of this ever-churning world may we recall that in Christ we live and move and have our being. He will direct us. He will sustain us. For His mercy, which endures to this present day, may we thank, and praise, serve and obey Him. Blessed Thanksgiving!

Collect for Thanksgiving - Almighty God, Your mercies are new every morning and Your generously provide for all our needs of body and soul. Grant us Your Holy Spirit that we may acknowledge Your goodness, give thanks for Your benefits, and serve You in willing obedience all our days.[1]

 



[1]Collect  for Thanksgiving © 2006 Lutheran Service Book Concordia Publishing House, St Louis

Thanksgiving Image © Google Images


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