Thursday, November 24, 2011

A Poem for Thanksgiving

Today is Thanksgiving, the day set aside each year to count the many blessings God has given us. It isn't a day for stuffing ourselves with food. It is a day when we should do as God commands us--Make a joyful noise unto the Lord, all ye lands. Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing. Psalms 1-2.

Instead of spotlighting a book today, I would like to share a poem with you that touches my heart. It speaks of how those who have been blessed are called upon to praise His name by showing love to others less fortunate than ourselves. 

Oh, God, when I have food,
help me to remember the hungry;
When I have work,
help me to remember the jobless;
When I have a home,
help me to remember those who have no home at all;
When I am without pain,
help me to remember those who suffer;
And remembering,
help me to destroy my complacency;
bestir my compassion,
and be concerned enough to help;
By word and deed,
those who cry out for what we take for granted.

-Samuel F. Pugh

I hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving. Enjoy your family and the bounty of your table. But in the midst of celebrating, don't forget to give praise to the provider of all our blessings.

Enter into His gates with Thanksgiving, and into His courts with praise; be thankful unto Him and bless His name. For the Lord is good; His mercy is everlasting; and His truth endureth to all generations. Psalms 100:4-5

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