Thanksgiving

The American tradition of Thanksgiving as a time to focus on God and His blessings dates back about 400 years. The earliest celebration was probably in 1607 at Cape Henry, Virginia. But our current holiday traces its history back to the Separatist Pilgrims.

The Separatists were English Christians who wanted to serve and worship God according to the Bible rather than the traditions of men. Persecuted in their home country of England they initially moved to Holland. But the culture in Holland was very ungodly. Through the grace of God the Separatists were given the opportunity to colonize the New World. So in 1620 they sailed to New England committed to building a community that would help future generations come to faith in Jesus Christ. William Bradford, the first Governor of Plymouth Colony, wrote of their dedication stating that they were willing to sacrifice their lives “even though they be but stepping stones for future generations of believers.”

The Colonists arrived in the New World of America in November of 1620. Unprepared for the harsh New England winter, nearly half of the Pilgrims died before spring. Then early in 1621 they were offered the chance to return to England: no one did. With confidence in God and by His grace through the help of the Native Americans, the pilgrims learned to live and thrive in their new home. In fact the Indian Chief Massasoit and almost his whole tribe became followers of Christ and there was peace between the Pilgrims and the Native Americans for almost 50 years. In December of 1621 the Governor declared a three day feast to thank God for His many blessings and thus began America’s holiday of Thanksgiving.

America has strayed far from the biblical convictions of these early settlers. But we shouldn’t point fingers at others. Rather we should ask ourselves “Am I striving to live and promote biblical truth with the full energy of my convictions?” To paraphrase Bradford, are we willing to make the sacrifices needed for future generations to learn the truth about God, Jesus Christ and the coming kingdom? I pray that we are. Make time this week to allow your heart to express gratitude to God for His many blessings. Happy Thanksgiving!