This week we will once again celebrate the Thanksgiving Holiday. Traditionally, "Thanksgiving" began in the late 1600's with the Pilgrims in the American Colonies "Celebrating" and thanking God for a bountiful harvest. Those pilgrims were thankful for the Lord's protection and provision as they were striving for a "new life" under harsh and challenging conditions. Those early days (especially winter) were extremely difficult. More than one-half of them did not survive. Yet, they were thankful for all that God had given them. They remained thankful and obedient because of their walk and relationship with the Lord. And in their thankfulness they worshipped the Lord God Almighty.

In his letter to the Colossians, Paul expressed his thankfulness to the believers there for their faith. In spite of persecution and harsh times, they remained faithful to the Lord. Their faith and thanksgiving centered on their salvation in Jesus Christ. Paul was thankful that they had become believers. He was thankful for their faith. He was thankful that they had a desire to carry on in the work of the Lord. This week as we give thanks to God for all of His blessings and provisions, let us also thank Him for his wonderful gifts of salvation and eternal life. Miss Jean and I wish you all a very Happy & Blessed Thanksgiving Holiday!