I posted this last Thanksgiving. I think it’s worth revisiting. Hope you agree.
How long since that first Thanksgiving?
Ah.
393 years. Wow. Just think of all those calories.
This holiday is uniquely American in its foods and traditions. And what is its hallmark? Why, family, of course.
So here are a few things to think about as you sit at the table today surrounded by the people you love. Or maybe just barely tolerate.
- Family is a Divine construct. It was conceived by God, designed by God, and, indeed, commanded by God. Go forth and multiply. Adam and Eve decided to obey this time, got busy, and began to do just that.
- Strife in families has been present from the beginning. This is an unfortunate (i.e. terrible) fact. The enemy has always had the family in his crosshairs. Why? He understands the power of blood and love.
- Family is the incubator of character. Here children should learn how to live, how to properly conduct themselves with other human beings. The family unit is meant to be the foundation of a civil society. More importantly, it is a type of the Church in the loving care of its members – the meaning of “is” here is, I confess, hopeful.
- That being said, it should also be a place where we learn how to resolve our differences without killing each other in the field. Our history together and our regard for one another should go a long way toward smoothing the rough patches. When these things are not enough, then we ought to learn how to establish firm, healthy boundaries without a blunt instrument.
“Meant to” and “ought to” are rather pollyanish, kind of utopian, you say? Well, maybe. One of the problems, as I see it, is that too many families are birthed with no goal in mind. When this is the case, kids with a wonky attitude are pretty much guaranteed. When they grow up and end up across from you at the Thanksgiving table, all your gifts of grace will then be called forth. Hopefully. And you will end the day having been tested and not found wanting. Hopefully.
I do pray, dear readers, that your celebration will be mightily blessed:
- that laughter will be the music of your day
- that the healing power of thanksgiving will be a balm for every sore spirit
- that good memories will fill the hearts of everyone at your table
I will sing to the Lord, because He has dealt bountifully with me. Psalm 12:6
Debra Celovsky 