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"I thank the LORD and I praise him; I bless the name of the LORD." Sirach 51:12c

I have heard it said when you are about to go into battle, thank and praise the Lord and bless His Name first, then go into battle.  There are many battles raging in this world.  It is important that we stay under His mantle to give glory to His Name when we called into battle. I remember watching Bishop Gregory Parkes in his opening statement to the faithful of the Diocese of St Petersburg as the announcement was made that he would be our shepherd.  When he pronounced his motto: "Nomini Tuo Da Gloriam" ("To Your Name, Give Glory") taken from Psalm 115, I was deeply struck and thought, this is a man who has the heart of David.  David, the great warrior, led his people to know and love and serve the Lord.  And he danced!!!  He praised the Lord and had great joy in his heart even in the midst of the battles and great crosses. I want to dance like that, no matter what I face, I am truly blessed.  I don't ever want to forget.   And I know in my heart, we all are truly blessed.

How many of your blessings can you count today?

Lord, help us to give You thanks and praise and Courageously Live the Gospel, so our attitude of gratitude will be a spark to bring others to You.

Reflection by:

Tina Ver Pault

Did You Know...

Jesus said in reply, "Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?" Then he said to him, "Stand up and go; your faith has saved you." Lk 17:17-19

Readings for the Thanksgiving Day

Happy Thanksgiving! We have so much for which to be thankful. My mother used to always remind me that we were in the best country in the world, in the best church in the world and the best family in the world and that we should remember our blessings. Years ago, there was a tv show, "Touched by an Angel". Angels were assigned to help different people going through tough times. Every time Monica said in her heartfelt, Irish accent, "God loves you!" it made me cry. I knew she was speaking to me too.

In this time like none before, we need to remind each other of our blessings and how much God loves us. God loves you, enough to die for you. He has given us so much: a place to live, food to eat, clothes to wear, friends, family, faith. Even the cross is a blessing - through it came our salvation.

In an Advent mission a few years back, Gus Lloyd challenged attendees to reflect on a response to the frequently asked question: "How are you?" How do you answer that question? Fine, good? Or can you be thankful for your blessings and respond, "Blessed and Grateful"?

What is the greatest thing the Lord has done for you in your life?  Joyfully remember that great favor today on this national day of thanks.

Lord, Almighty, Ever-living, Ever-loving God, help me to feel true gratitude for every blessing You have given me, so I may joyfully and Courageously live Your Gospel of Love.

Reflection by:

Tina Ver Pault

Did You Know...