Thanksgiving Day, celebrated annually in the United States, is rooted in 1621 when Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to share a feast. After a year marked by hardship, loss, and hunger, the Pilgrims paused to give thanks to God for the abundant harvest and the help they had received from their Indigenous neighbors. This historical event highlights two key themes that resonate with Christians today—thankfulness and community.
Thankfulness is central to the Christian life. The Apostle Paul writes, “Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Notice that Paul doesn’t say to give thanks “for” all circumstances, but “in” all circumstances. Whether we are experiencing abundance or scarcity, joy or sorrow, we are called to maintain a posture of gratitude—this attitude of thanksgiving springs from recognizing God’s provision, grace, and sovereignty in every situation.
In addition to cultivating thankfulness, Thanksgiving Day invites us to consider the importance of community. The original Thanksgiving celebration was a communal event—people from different backgrounds and cultures came together to share a meal and celebrate survival and provision. This act of unity serves as a model for Christian community. Hebrews 10:24-25 urges believers, “Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together… but encouraging one another.”
In a world that increasingly prizes individualism and self-sufficiency, Thanksgiving offers a moment to pause and recognize our need for others. As C.S. Lewis wrote, “Friendship is unnecessary, like philosophy, like art… It has no survival value; rather it is one of those things which give value to survival.” Historically, we could argue the necessity of belonging to a community for survival, but I get Lewis’ point. The friendships and relationships we share within our Christian community are gifts from God, meant to strengthen and encourage us in our walk of faith.
This Thanksgiving, let us embrace both gratitude and community. May we thank God for His countless blessings and gather with others in a spirit of unity and love, remembering that thankfulness and fellowship are integral parts of the Christian life. Let us live out Colossians 3:15: “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts… and be thankful.” Soli Deo Gloria (Glory to God alone)!