Embracing the True Essence of Thanksgiving
As we gather around the table, sharing laughter and gratitude, there’s a whisper in the air, a sacred reminder echoing through the ages: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”
“…remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’’ (Acts 20:35).
These words, not etched anywhere in the four Gospels but remembered in the book of Acts, hold a truth that make sense to Christians, especially on this Thanksgiving Day.
It’s my aspiration, my goal during this time, to hold onto this saying in every prayer, letting it guide my actions and thoughts.
Remember, none of us are exempt from this calling — to embrace the joy of giving, to live it out in our everyday lives. It’s not merely a suggestion; it’s the true key to a beautiful life, one that exemplifies true grace and love.
But why do we give? It’s the unmerited grace, the divine extension of love from Christ, that propels us to be givers. When we embrace this grace, we comprehend our role as children of God, driven by a belief that compels us to give of ourselves.
Imagine standing in the presence of holy light, seeing ourselves as God sees us, acknowledging our need for a Savior. That holy Savior, born among us, lived a flawless life, and willingly bore the weight of our sins upon the cross. Christians see this. We see the cross, the wages of our sin. He died for the sins of others. We see that!
We understand what a life of love looks like. The resurrection, the living Savior — this is the core of our faith. It’s this truth that aligns our hearts with His, merging His story of death and resurrection with our own, birthing us anew and securing our place in eternity.
The world is watching, and you are God’s display.
Gratitude pours out naturally from this understanding. The life we lead becomes a response to the selflessness of the cross. It’s not about earning but responding — responding with a life of love and giving.
So how do we truly give? We start by giving to God, offering what we can, yet what He truly desires is our heart. Our worship, both public and private, becomes an offering. We become a living display of God’s love.
Living as children of God means honoring Him through our actions, serving with conviction, uncertain of the impact we make — but steady in our faith.
For in our giving, we walk by faith, trusting in His wisdom and guidance. He knows, He knows!
“Yes,” says the Spirit, “they will rest from their labor, for their deeds will follow them.” (Revelation 14:13).
Our deeds, our acts of love and service, will follow us through eternity.
God, in His infinite kindness, rewards our service to Him, placing us in the path of others in need. His faithfulness empowers us to give, knowing that what’s done for Christ has everlasting significance.
Even during life’s trials and temptations, the faint voice within urges us to shed selfish desires, to recognize the fleeting nature of this earthly life. Living for Christ and for others infuses each day with purpose and joy, making every moment worthwhile.
So, this Thanksgiving, let’s pause, reflecting on the call to live for something greater than ourselves. Let’s embrace the truth that what’s done for Christ endures, making this one life we have truly count.
Someday, we’ll look back and realize it was worth it all.
Pastor Rich is a dedicated minister and experienced business owner. I received my Master of Theological Studies from Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary and my Bachelor of Arts in Biblical Studies from Spurgeon College. With over eight years of experience in the ministry, I currently serve as the Outreach and Evangelism Pastor at First Baptist Church Springfield, MO. richbitterman.com
Image by DEEPAI
True Thanksgiving is not just a holiday tradition, but a daily spiritual discipline that should be practiced continuously. The true essence of Thanksgiving is a continuous, spiritual discipline of gratitude that involves recognizing and acknowledging the ever-present good, which is a form of worship and leads to spiritual growth and empowerment. This daily practice of thankfulness, transforms daily life, builds a stronger faith, and has the power to improve one’s circumstances.
Your Friend – His servant,
Isaac Otieno