An Offering of Thanksgiving.
Dear friends and members of St. Matt's,
In Hebrew Scriptures, there is a long tradition of the thank offering or of the sacrifice of thanksgiving. In fact, that latter phrase is one I say sometimes when we come to communion. Often the sacrifice left by God's people at the temple were gifts of food and goods, whatever they could afford to part with. These gifts weren't intended to garner more favor with God in the future. They were offered as a thank you, a sign that God's people knew they had been blessed. It's the idea that if we are grateful, if we know we have been blessed, if we have reason for thanksgiving, then we ought to return some of that joy to God and to our neighbors. In order that others might benefit from our gratitude and our awareness of God's generosity.
Thanksgiving, of course, stemming from different traditions has some similar themes. Throughout the week we're encouraged to give, to reflect, and to remember to give thanks. For many of us, the week ahead will be very different than other Thanksgivings. And while this is for good reason, these decisions to celebrate differently, to distance ourselves from those we love, are painful. These decisions come as another loss in the midst of a difficult season. And while there is honor in making them, because we have a responsibility to the people we love, to the greater good, and to our community, I know each of us will be aware of what we're missing this year.
I hope that if this week is not as full of joy and connection as it normally might be, that you will consider this your thank offering. Your sacrifice of thanksgiving. Let those difficult choices be the acknowledgment of the blessings you've been given, the love you share with others, the joyful sign of your commitment to God and to your neighbors. However you mark this holiday, however different it may be, I hope you will spend time giving thanks for all the blessings God has freely given you. And for the ways that God continues to sustain your life, your health, and that of the people that you love. Know that keeping others safe is and expression of love.
Join us this week for a few extra opportunities for connection and shared gratitude. Take a look at the calendar and all that's included in our e-news. Pub Theology questions are also included so that you'll have them a little bit ahead of time. Know that you are all in my prayers. And that among the many blessings of my life, I will be giving thanks for you this week. For all the ways you are who God has made you to be, for all the ways you are learning to walk more closely in the footsteps of Jesus, and for all the gifts and offerings you share with me and with our community at St. Matt's.
God bless you. Happy Thanksgiving.
Faithfully,
--Marissa +
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