Thanksgiving - 2018

This is Thanksgiving weekend – not specifically a holy day as such – but many observe this day by attending worship services to give thanks to God. But these days, as we look out on the world around us – many troubling and disturbing realities rise up before us. So much discontent everywhere, so much acrimony, harsh judging, and condemnation, so much that seems to be dividing peoples and groups and even nations. But as I was thinking of these things, trying to reconcile them with Thanksgiving, the words of St. Paul in the Letter to the Philippians came to mind. They seem to address how we should approach all these paradoxes to a peaceful heart on Thanksgiving. Remember, Paul is writing these words from prison – his very life hangs in the balance. Yet out of this ominous darkness, he sends this remedy, this recipe for dealing with darkness. Listen again to his words; Brothers and sisters: Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding,  will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. Worry leading to panic, leading to loss of peace cannot lead to solutions to the darkness. So how then should we deal with the threats that surround us and trouble us? Paul goes on to offer this thanksgiving recipe: Whatever is true: “only Truth can make you free” – Jesus’ words. We must find truth and listen for those voices who speak real truth, not fake truth.   Whatever is honourable: look to those who rise above the chaos, those who’s words and deeds have bourn the test of time; who by their legacy of goodness have given us an example to follow. Whatever is just: which works that people undertake bring suffering, which bring peace? Blessed are the peacemakers. Whatever is pure: can a bad tree produce good fruit - by their fruits you know them. Whatever is pleasing, whatever is commendable: Blessed are they who hunger and thirst for righteousness - Blessed are the merciful - Blessed are the pure of heart - Finally Paul concludes: If there is any excellence and if there is anything worthy of praise: Think about these things. Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you. There will be many gatherings this weekend, of family and friends. And no doubt, there will be many special recipes shared. May this recipe of St. Paul’s be one of them.