GOD HAS BLESSED US BEYOND MEASURE
Thanksgiving 2007
In north America, thanksgiving is considered as a preeminent day. The origin of that special day finds its roots during the establishment of the pilgrims from Europe to north America. After a long sea journey of 66 days, the pilgrims reached the shore of Plymouth on December 1620.
About 46 of them died due to the extreme cold in winter. Summer of 1621 was not too promising to them, because they were facing a severe drought that was about to destroy the corn crops planted earlier for their survival.
The pilgrims called for a day of fasting and prayer in order to ask God for a bountiful harvest. God answered their prayers and it rained at the end of day. The harvest was plentiful for the season. In autum of 1621, they held a grand celebration to thank God for his favors and blessings. This celebration is considered as ” The first Thanksgiving feast”. Historians believe pilgrims were quite religious, so prayer was part of the festivity.
In 1777, all the 13 colonies joined in communal celebration of Thanksgiving. Later, in 1863, last Thursday of November was proclaimed by president Lincoln as official Thanksgiving day.
We, as immigrants, believe that God has blessed us beyond measure in this country. We want to follow the model of the pilgrims and the Americans in showing God our gratitude.
“Praise the Lord, O my soul; all my inmost being, praise his holy name. Praise the Lord, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits” (Ps.103:1-2)
At Redemption Baptist Church, one week is set aside every year in November to pray, praise, worship, and presenting part of revenue to God.
COME AND REJOICE WITH US!