Remember spirit of Thanksgiving

To the editor:
Sara Josepha Hale (1788-1879) was an editor and writer who encouraged President Abraham Lincoln to proclaim a national day of thanksgiving. Why not be grateful, she thought, the harvests are in, the elections are over and this day would bring us all together and unite Americans in the midst of unprecedented change.
Today, while the stores are already begging us to center our shopping on Christmas, and the city’s decorations are already lit and most are dreaming about “Black Friday” bargains, why not gather the family around and remind everyone that Thanksgiving Day is Thursday? Why not count our blessings and remember the good things in life?
Our Lord said, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Thank God Thanksgiving is still on the calendar. Has God been good to you? Has He blessed you with material blessings?
This Thanksgiving, plan on blessing others and giving in the spirit of love and peace. (Can you hear the bell-ringers at the store?)
Remember, it’s not the debt that we owe, but it’s the seed that we sow. We can never repay the Lord of all He has done, but we can bless others.
For 45 years, the Compassion Network has helped the poor and needy, and this season we turn to the community for help once again.
Thank you for giving to the Lord’s work through your favorite charity.
Pastor Phill Jellison
Compassion Network