“Did you not decree, O king,
that no one is to address a petition to god or man
for thirty days, except to you, O king;
otherwise he shall be cast into a den of lions?”
We live in a time when our own leaders are being manipulated to dispose of our religious freedom. Like Darius, they don't always have evil intent. But the results are still rules which throw Christian businesses and business owners into the lion's den. Sorry Little Sisters of the Poor, but the King's law is absolute.
We should give thanks today for the religious freedom we do still enjoy as it is far greater than that enjoyed in many other parts of the world. Abraham Lincoln did intend today to be "a day of thanksgiving and praise to Almighty God, the beneficent Creator and Ruler of the Universe." And we have much for which to be thankful. Yet even as we given thanks we are well advised to remain vigilant so that these great blessings of our country may not be further squandered by well-meaning political authorities.
The main thing to remember is that there is a heavenly authority which transcends any earthly kingdom. This is why we strive to make laws which allow us to follow that authority. But it is also how we have peace even when things get crazy and we have no such protection. Even when people die of fright in anticipation of what is coming into the world and the very powers of heaven themselves seem to be shaken we don't have to be afraid. The Son of Man enters even into situations like these. He manifests his power and great glory to bring redemption to his people even when all seems lost.
So we give thanks no matter what. We give thanks for the many blessings God gives us. We should even give thanks for the trials, knowing that God uses these to draw us closer to him. We give thanks that nothing in all creation can keep us from God's love (cf. Rom. 8:34-39). Even when we are overwhelmed by the world around us, we serve the one who has overcome the world (cf. Joh. 16:33).
Creation never ceases to praise him. Even winter does not dwell on its desolation but knows that spring ever follows. Let creation teach us to hope in God so that we can give thanks at all times.
Frost and chill, bless the Lord;
praise and exalt him above all forever.
Ice and snow, bless the Lord;
praise and exalt him above all forever.
On this Thanksgiving day let us not allow circumstances to diminish or thankfulness. No matter what those circumstances are they can be fuel for praise if we let them.
Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you (cf. The. 5:16-18).
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