Thanksgiving is Life-Giving

Thanksgiving was not really considered a "Catholic" holiday growing up. However, by looking at living life in the framework of scripture, giving thanks to God needs to be seen as a essential, supernatural, life-changing and life-giving activity. Giving thanks goes beyond a sense of duty and is a matter of good habit. We should take nothing for granted and give thanks and praise to God in all things.

Giving thanks goes beyond the tradition of doing something for others at Thanksgiving, although that response is good and thankful. We should give what we can, while we can, for the echo of the voice of God is found in the response. If we cannot give food, or a turkey, we can help distribute or deliver the food. God will send you the hungry, no problem.

Giving thanks is a central and essential part of life. If we look at life in a selfish way in terms of a "God and Me" relationship, God's contribution cannot be ignored and although God does not ask for thanks, we are compelled to offer our thanksgiving. If we look at life as part of a community, a faith community or otherwise, The thanksgiving not only multiplies but is joined by the angels and saints, an unending song of thanksgiving in which it is time for your contribution, be it a harmony or a solo.

Giving thanks is a supernatural part of life. God himself gave thanks while here on earth and is an example to us. He gave thanks because He knew a loving Father who provides for all His needs, just as He provides for us. His love is always present whether we appreciate it or not.
Giving thanks is also scriptural. We are reminded in the liturgy of the word, and we respond "Thanks be to God". God loves us so much that the truth is seen by anyone who opens their eyes to it.

In giving thanks, we show God our appreciation for this life in which he has provided everything for us. In return He reminds us of His endless love and the gift of eternal life he has offered us. As the weather turns to cold Let us thank God for his warmth. As the days get short, we thank him for his embrace. As our bodies, minds and souls ache, let us thank him for his healing power.