Give Thanks To The Lord

– Ponderings:

I’ve been reflecting on the wonderful interfaith Thanksgiving service at the church yesterday evening. We had a “packed” house, beautiful music, readings from different faith traditions, and a sense of gratitude and thanks for all our shared blessings. As a pastor, I have participated in many ecumenical services (different Christian denominations) and in a service that joined Judaism and Christianity, but never in an interfaith service. This morning, I was reminded of these words from Ps. 107:

“Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” — Psalm 107:1

An interfaith service that focuses on thanksgiving powerfully reminds us of the diversity of God’s creation and the common values we share. Though our beliefs, practices, and expressions of faith may differ, the posture of thankfulness transcends those distinctions, drawing us closer to one another and to our Creator. When we think about our shared desire for peace, justice, safety, economic well-being, health, family, and hope for a future, we forget about – or at least minimize – those things that divide us.

In Psalm 107, the psalmist calls on us to thank God, not for one specific act or blessing but because of God’s enduring love. This universal truth—God’s steadfast love for all people—unites us all, regardless of creed or doctrine. Last evening, we experienced a profound sense of community. We saw gratitude expressed in varied ways: through prayer, song, or spoken word. Each expression reflected the unique ways people encounter the divine.

As Christians, we take this time to celebrate the common thread of gratitude while holding onto our beliefs and reflecting Christ’s love through humility and open-hearted listening. These moments remind us of the importance of building bridges rather than walls. Jesus extended love and healing to those from different backgrounds and beliefs and, so, we do the same. We show that God’s goodness is vast enough to embrace all people.

While remaining true to your beliefs, how can gratitude help you connect with people of different beliefs? How can participating in an interfaith gathering expand your understanding of God’s love?

Prayer: Loving God, thank you for the beauty of diversity in your creation. Help me to see your goodness in all people and to give thanks for the many ways you reveal yourself. May I reflect Christ’s love in every encounter and celebrate the unity found in gratitude. Amen.