In America this holiday is celebrated as a remembrance of when the Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to celebrate a good harvest with a huge feast. One detail many Americans leave out when celebrating, is what a huge part prayer had in this famous feast. The pilgrims were very religious. They had put their trust in God and searched for a new land of opportunities and religious freedom. They really had to trust God because the first year didn't go as planned. The extreme cold and lack of food was devastating to the Pilgrims. So many were lost that first year. Can you imagine allowing your faith to lead you to a mysterious land, and then watch everyone you know starve and freeze to death? Fortunately, things turned around for the Pilgrims when they were blessed with a wonderful harvest the following year. Being mindful of this blessing, they held a great feast to thank God!
I think we could all learn a lesson from these early settlers. Life is full of difficult challenges and it is when we are the weakest, that our trust in God must be the strongest. God's plan for us does include a great harvest and sometimes we are asked to be faithful and patient. This holiday isn't just about the meal, its about enjoying all the amazing things God has blessed us with and giving Him thanks for all He has done. And please say a prayer today for all those who may be cold or hungry or missing a loved one.
-Theresa
