Be Thankful

SERMON TITLE:   “Be Thankful”
SERMON TEXT:    Colossians 3:12-17
PREACHER:           Rev. Kim James
OCCASION:           November 21, 2021, at First UMC
 
 
INTRODUCTION
 
                I’m really glad the Pilgrims had their Thanksgiving Day feast in Plymouth 400 years ago, in 1621.  And I’m really glad that, in 1863, President Lincoln instituted Thanksgiving as a national holiday.  I’m glad because Thanksgiving is a really great celebration.  We get to cook and eat wonderful food.  Most of us get an extra day or two off from work or school.  We have a special opportunity to enjoy the company of family and friends—either in person, over the phone, or with video conferencing.  And, for some people, Thanksgiving weekend is a great holiday because of all the football games and shopping opportunities.  But there’s one other feature that makes Thanksgiving so great.  Thanksgiving is the one holiday of the year that reminds us that we should be thankful.
                Think about it.  Christmas Day inspires us to be generous.  New Year’s Day gives us hope for new beginnings.  Valentine’s Day reminds us to say, “I love you.”  Easter teaches us to believe that, no matter how bad our situation becomes, God can always make something good come out of it.  Mother’s Day and Father’s Day honor our parents.  Memorial Day helps us to remember those who have died.  Fourth of July celebrates the independent birth of our nation.  Labor Day recognizes the contributions and rights of workers. Veteran’s Day honors those who have served our country in the military.  But only Thanksgiving really emphasizes and reminds us how much we need to be thankful.

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