I love the season of Thanks and Giving—don’t you? Growing up on the Canadian border with New York State, the changing of the seasons always thrilled my soul. Each season gave way to the next in such beautiful ways. I’d love to tell you about it. One thing about those four seasons—they built anticipation and excitement into the daily lives of kids like me.

The slow dance of the trees as they traded their green apparel for the brilliance of red, yellow, orange, and purple signaled the coming winter. As the leaves left the security of their branches and slowly fell, the ground became a beautiful, soft carpet of colors. The aroma of those leaves in the fall filled the air with one of God’s most beautiful perfumes. All of these led up to my favorite time of the year.

Looking back, I love the season because of the warmth and comfort of home. Thanksgiving was a day filled with the aroma of roasted turkey, the sounds of laughter, and the joyous reunion of family and friends. I never felt more secure as a child than I did when I was with my family. I miss those days. My mom left this world in my 37th year of life and took with her some of the joy that filled those days. I will ever be grateful for her life.

As we gather around the table this holiday, let’s take a moment to reflect on the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving through a Christian lens. At its core, Thanksgiving is about gratitude. It’s a time to pause and count our blessings, recognizing the hand of God in every aspect of our lives. As we admire the golden turkey and the array of side dishes, let’s remember Psalm 107:1: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” His provision is abundant, and His grace is unending.

As for me:
• I am so grateful for the welcome I have found in this town.
• I’m grateful for my church family at FBCPOC
• I am grateful for the men and women of the POCVFD.
• I am grateful for the smiling faces of the children and their teachers at POC Elementary School.
• I am grateful for the chance to serve the community in whatever way I can.

One of the most beautiful aspects of Thanksgiving is the opportunity to break bread together. In the same way, Jesus shared meals with His disciples, teaching and loving them through simple acts of fellowship. As we gather with our loved ones, we emulate this practice, nurturing not just our bodies but our spirits. So, pass the mashed potatoes and share a story or two about how God has moved in your life this year.

As we come to this season, be sure to give thanks to Him from whom you have life. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.” (James 1:17)

Have a blessed and joyful Thanksgiving! We’ll talk again soon.

Brother Rich