Thanksgiving Message

Tomorrow our country will celebrate 500 years of observing one special day. A day, set aside to acknowledge our supreme, triune, God's benevolence upon our country.

Few citizens will remember the trials and sacrifices that each year culminate on this designated occasion. Most will be mentally occupied with a day off from their workplace, a relief from daily grind and the family table laden with pleasures. The cook will have completed their task and shortly all will have drifted away to slumber or casual interests.

The intent of the day will once again begin to accumulate mental dust and historical complacency. The lives before that paid the price will not be recalled. No one will reflect upon the fact that all their provisions and congregating were divinely supplied. In a few hours, they will retire and their minds will adjust what is awaiting the next day. To them, past is prologue.

However, a remnant will begin the day with heart's abounding with their unilateral gratitude for life, health, family and promises yet to be fulfilled. They will traverse their family joy, fleshly overflowing satisfaction and the consciousness of the presence of God never far away.

Their thoughts will drift between the carefree days of youth, the required adjustments of maturing and the awareness of the rapidly flowing days of the future. A few moments will be occupied on loved ones no longer available to hear the old words that were never spoken. There will be that moment of sadness for those totally alone or ill.

Tomorrow, the day will probably end a myriad of ways. Many will drift into sweet sleep cuddled mentally in the spiritual arms that are so familiar, yet a distance away.

My personal thanksgiving blessing upon you and yours from us at Rapha.