Half of the Puritan settlers died in the first winter from sickness, cold and starvation. Eventually spring came and along with the warmer weather so did some friendly indians. Who, out of kindness, showed them how to plant corn and other crops, make houses, and survive in the wilderness of the Northeast. That summer, they had a bumper crop from their plantings and celebrated with a three day feast inviting the kind indian neighbors.
The early pilgrims did not at all see the harsh winter, lost loved ones and almost utter devastation that was to befall them. But God in his goodness, sent some of his other precious people to assist in rebuilding the frazzled and bewildered settlers. Eventually, their lives were rebuilt and their love for God planted seeds of devotion in this fertile land.
This November is effecting many of us like the first November the Pilgrims discovered. Our economy has lost 2 Trillion dollars in the last few weeks, many have lost jobs and are feeling a sense of bewilderedness . We have found ourselves living though a very chilly fall season we didn’t see coming. We were hoping for the warm waters of a self correcting economy, but instead have landed smack in the middle of a horrendous storm of financial loss, untested leadership , and bailouts.
You may ask where is God? He is with you. Jesus promised never to leave or forsake us. Our God is the God of the valley and the mountain and as Psalm 23 promises, He will restore our soul.
Thanksgiving may be an American holiday, but it is a Christian’s mandate because it causes a refocus of our perspective. You cannot give thanks and have a grudging heart. And you cannot operate in faith without thanksgiving.
Remembering how God brought the pilgrims that terrible winter of 1620/1621 can be a true reminder that God will bring us through also. Spring will come and only God knows who he has waiting to come and help us. You have the favor of God on your life and His mercies are new every morning.
Enjoy the family, the feast and the football tomorrow. Take some personal time to say Thanks to our precious, loving savior. Keep and attitude of gratitude and together, we will make it through……..