We are a blessed people, believing that every good gift comes to us from God himself. Thanksgiving is a time we put aside in a special way to name our blessings and give thanks to our God for his abundant goodness to us.
First and foremost, we thank God for our savior, Jesus Christ, who is the Father’s gift of infinite love to us and the hope of eternal salvation. Next, we thank God for the gift of life itself, for the gift of faith, for our families, friends and loved ones, and every other blessing we have been given.
There are many Scriptures that remind us to show our gratitude to God, and I think this passage from 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 is an especially meaningful description of how we should live:
Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.
When so many of God’s children around the world are suffering in these times of war, unrest and division, may we gather around our Thanksgiving tables in faith, peace and unity. Let us share a renewed sense of gratitude with loved ones and glorify God by sharing our blessings with others – especially the poor and those most in need, that they also may know the power of God’s love through us.
At this special time of Thanksgiving, I invite you to pause, reflect on God’s gifts, and give thanks for all good things in your lives. May we strive to live each day with gratitude in our hearts! A grateful heart is the medicine we need to counter the negativity we often encounter in our society.
I wish you and those you hold dear a most blessed and happy Thanksgiving. And know that I am exceedingly thankful for each and every one of you, and I will keep you in my prayers. May God bless you and those you love.
Your brother in Christ,
+Edward C. Malesic
Bishop of Cleveland