Thanksgiving…a day set aside to give thanks. All over our country, families and friends will gather, giving thanks for their countless blessings. They will recount the past year and the goodness of God, even in a year of difficulties. Thanksgiving is a time to reflect, to celebrate, and to look forward to in hope. Thanksgiving is a time to remember God.

Giving thanks is not something new. God established feasts for the Israelites for this very reason. One of these feasts, the Festival of Shelters or Booths, is described at the end of Leviticus 23. This feast required the Jewish men to actually travel to Jerusalem to celebrate. Lasting seven days, the Israelites would build and live in temporary structures or booths near the city. Building the shelters was a vivid reminder of God’s care for the people when they lived in temporary shelters in the wilderness. This festival was a joyous celebration of God’s provision where He continually offered His protection and provision in their years of wandering before they entered the promised land.

Filled with uncertainty, doubt, and worry, the Israelites had times of complaining and rebelling against God. In spite of this, He continued to care for their needs and protect them. With sacrifices of thanksgiving, the people remembered God’s provision and care not only in times of prosperity but in a time of great difficulty. The Festival of Shelters was a time to remember.

Penning this psalm, David also recognized God’s goodness in his wanderings and offered Him thanksgiving.

“Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; our God is merciful. The Lord preserves the simple; when I was brought low, he saved me. Return, O my soul, to your rest; for the Lord has dealt bountifully with you…I will offer to you the sacrifice of thanksgiving and call on the name of the Lord. I will pay my vows to the Lord in the presence of all his people, in the courts of the house of the Lord, in your midst, O Jerusalem. Praise the Lord!” (Psalm 116:5-7, 17-19)

Maybe the past year has taken you through a wandering in the wilderness like the Israelites or you have been brought low like David. You have been filled with times of uncertainty, worry and doubt over what you are facing. Maybe your year has been filled with joy and prosperity. Your path has been smooth with few worries or cares.

Regardless of the direction your wanderings have taken you, celebrate His goodness. Take time today to remember God and the wondrous works He has done in your life. We honestly deserve nothing, yet He graciously offers everything. Abounding in grace, mercy, and steadfast love, God meets you where you are at and provides everything you need.

As you enjoy Thanksgiving with your family and friends, take time to reflect on God’s goodness. Recount to Him the abundance of His grace and mercy. Offer Him a sacrifice of praise, not only on this Thanksgiving Day but every day.