Thanksgiving as a holiday is undoubtedly in my top three. I love the cooking, the preparation; I love the invitation and the sounds of laughter around the table. I love the sheepish smiles of first-time attenders; I love the sense of security emanating from those who knew they had this place to gather all along. From the pilgrims traveling hundreds of miles to the weary living right next door, this day, this Thanksgiving Day, the table is open to all.

Be thankful.

Be thankful for those who show up instead of being angry at those with other plans.

Be thankful for those who love you instead of chasing down and arguing with those who don’t.

Be thankful for the community you have instead of criticizing its shortcomings.

Be thankful for the joy surrounding you rather than being heartbroken by the myriad chaos and sorrow.

Be thankful that you have a place at this table rather than wondering if your neighbor deserves to be there.

Be thankful for a smile from a stranger instead of being afraid of what it might mean.

Be thankful for people who hold doors for you rather than being prideful that you can do it yourself.

Be thankful for the good you see in the world; the bad will find you on its own.

Be thankful for the blessings God bestows instead of continuously asking for more.

Be thankful that you don’t have to live this life in isolation; you have at least one person who loves you and that’s enough.

Be thankful for God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit upon whom we live and move and have our being; rather than relying on yourself to work things out.

There may be worries that live rent-free in our heads but we cannot forget the grace that lives cost-free in our hearts. Grace perfects, it does not destroy, as Dr. Anthony Baker says. Be perfected in grace, humbled with thanks, and let every day be a thanksgiving to God.

All are always welcome at this table.

Faithfully,

Fr. Sean+