The History of Christian Thanksgiving

The origin of Thanksgiving is recorded in the Bible. Many believe Thanksgiving began with the Pilgrims’ arrival in America. Thanksgiving originated as an Old Testament practice, predating America and establishing an early pattern for gratitude. Israel was commanded to give thanks continually in Leviticus, Chapter 7, and many of the Psalms are Psalms of Thanksgiving.  Deuteronomy 16 talks about the Feast of Tabernacles, showing that Christian Thanksgiving has its origins in Scripture rather than American traditions. Early Christians adopted Thanksgiving as a spiritual discipline. In fact, the Greek word Eucharist literally means Thanksgiving. Every time they gathered around the Lord’s Table, they were enacting an aspect of Thanksgiving. So how did we get our modern Thanksgiving? In 1620 the Pilgrims put Thanksgiving into practice. Their first harvest was in 1621. When Governor William Bradford declared a three-day feast, they invited their native neighbors. They prayed and read scriptures. Thanksgiving was about celebrating all the good that God had provided.  It is not about football or shopping. It is about expressing gratitude to God for the harvest, safety, and resources. In 1798, George Washington proclaimed the National Day of Thanksgiving to honor Almighty God.  In 1863, Abraham Lincoln made it a national holiday, intentionally referring to an act of repentance and gratitude. As we celebrate Thanksgiving, let us remember its origins are rooted in the Holy Word of God, not merely American traditions. That may help us keep a proper focus. Blessings, my friend. Hope to see you Sunday.
 
Pastor Steve