In the fall of 1621 the early settlers celebrated their bountiful harvest with their native neighbors. They gave thanks to God for his provisions of rain after a long drought to enable a sustainable harvest. In 1789 George Washington made a Thanksgiving proclamation to Congress to honor God’s blessings on this country and its people. President Abraham Lincoln declared it a Federal Holiday in the middle of the Civil War in 1863 setting the day aside for “Thanksgiving and Praise to our Father who dwelleth in the Heavens.”  

It is comforting today to reflect on our country’s history and note, from the settlers and founders, through the establishment of our government that a recognition of God’s provision for his people was clear. May it be clear to us and may we each give Him the Thanksgiving today for His mercy and love and the promise of His love that it is with us forever.