In the Beginning..

In 1621, the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged today as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies. Then in 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November.

Why the Turkey? Since it was recorded how the colonists had hunted wild turkeys during the autumn of 1621 and since turkey is a uniquely North American (and scrumptious) bird, it gained traction as the Thanksgiving meal of choice for Americans after Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863.

So, with this introduction to the history of Thanksgiving Day, let me share my collection of all Pilgrims and all things that gobble.

Thankful for Great Turkeys... of the Holiday

Christians generally view Thanksgiving as a time to express gratitude to God for His provision, blessings, and faithfulness. The holiday aligns with biblical themes of giving thanks, found in verses like 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (“Give thanks in all circumstances”) and Psalm 100:4 (“Enter his gates with thanksgiving”). It is an opportunity to reflect on God’s goodness, gather with family, and share blessings, often connecting it to the Pilgrims’ story of thanking God for survival and harvest.

However, perspectives vary:

• Traditional View: Most Christians embrace Thanksgiving as a non-liturgical holiday that complements their faith, focusing on gratitude, prayer, and communal worship. Churches may hold special services emphasizing thankfulness.

• Historical Critique: Some Christians, aware of the complex history involving Native Americans, approach Thanksgiving with nuance, balancing gratitude with reflection on past injustices. They may focus on reconciliation or broader themes of God’s mercy.

• Cultural Concerns: A minority view Thanksgiving skeptically, wary of its secular or consumerist trends, preferring to emphasize spiritual gratitude over cultural celebrations.

Overall, Thanksgiving is a chance to practice biblical gratitude, though interpretations of its historical and cultural aspects differ. If you want specifics on a denomination’s stance or more details, let me know!