ECCLESIOLOGICAL ETCHINGS
November 25, 2022
I am sitting here (Thanksgiving evening) at the dining room table reflecting on the day… not specifically this day, November 24, 2022, but on the whole notion of setting aside a day for gratitude. As I’ve said before, I hope we are stretching the notion of one day of gratitude each year to 365 days of gratitude each year. With that said, there is something about a people pausing and focusing their collective attention on one thing. Within the ancient Jewish tradition, the tradition Jesus would have practiced, there were certain high holy days and celebrations where the community set aside a certain period of time to reflect on why they did what they did. Within our own country, we celebrate the 4th of July, also called Independence Day. I hope it is not the only day people reflect on the founding of our nation, yet there is something important to the culture of a nation to set aside a specific day and remember. As you read this, it will be the day after Thanksgiving, a day for eating leftovers, watching some football, and maybe searching for that one exceptional Black Friday deal. Take a moment to reflect on Jesus, who, according to John 7, participated in the Festival of Tabernacles, a Jewish festival that remembered God’s deliverance from Egypt, but was also understood as a harvest festival. Jesus had probably shared in this annual time of gratitude since his birth, but it was not the only time he felt a deep sense of thankfulness. Having such a day or period of time helps teach, allows for more intense reflection on the subject, and can create new patterns in our lives. Perhaps, aside from the extra calories from the second dessert, there is something you can take away from yesterday that can be woven into your day today, tomorrow, and the day after.
Teach and shape me, O Giver of All Good Gifts, how to have a heart and an attitude of gratitude. I reflect on the ancient stories and practices central to my faith, believing they have the power to form me in the likeness of Jesus, one whose heart seemed to always find a reason for thankfulness. Amen.
