October 11 – Thanksgiving!

Meister Eckhart, the German priest, theologian, philosopher and mystic, has written, “If the only prayer you said was thank you, that would be enough.” It is very simple and worthy advice.

These days, though the headlines can knock you sideways, the harvest is in, wood is being stacked for winter heat, the trees are aflame in the annual miracle of autumn. Especially in the midst of global concern, gratitude should be part of all of our days.  It is good, then, to set aside this time specifically to offer thanks. The sanctuary is already decorated, and part of that decoration is our Thanksgiving tree. Once again, all who attend on Sunday will have the opportunity to write their gratitude on a leaf to be hung on the Thanksgiving tree.

It’s also the fifth and final Sunday in the Season of Creation this week. Following themes as we have been doing in Job 12:7-10, this week we’ll ponder the idea of God’s hand in the life and breath of every living thing. We’ll look at the story in Luke where Jesus heals ten men with leprosy, but only one returns to offer thanks. Is the offering of gratitude the second blessing in that scenario? All of those healed have been blessed, but is this man blessed twice? The choir has some beautiful offerings this week, “God Who Touches Earth with Beauty” and “Spirit of God.”

So, in the meantime, read Luke 17:11-19 and ponder the following:

1.       Do you have a regular practice of gratitude in your daily life?

2.       The man who returned to give thanks to Jesus... How might this be the second blessing?

Thank you for reading this and thank you for your support of the work and witness of Tobermory United Church. May you know peace, beauty and joy as you celebrate Thanksgiving this weekend.

Image: Phil Evenden, pexels.com