Sermon Tone Analysis

“Known as the Mother of Thanksgiving, Sarah Josepha Hale was born in 1788, a native of New Hampshire.

She wrote several books, but is mostly recognized as the poet who created the nursery rhyme about a girl named Mary and her lamb, which you probably sung as a child.

What is not widely known about Sarah is how she campaigned for 36 years to see the government declare a day solely dedicated to gratitude.

“At this season every family, almost, in our land has the comforts of life, and nearly all have the hope and prospect of living thus comfortably through the coming seasons.”

Scripture says we can offer thanksgiving as a sacrifice, and doing so glorifies God.

Being able to recognize God’s goodness, despite our circumstances, is an act of worship which pays homage to his attributes--his grace, patience, love, and provision.

Sarah Josepha Hale was an advocate of thanksgiving, and became the catalyst for the United States implementing a day of gratitude as a national holiday.

While not everyone has the same benefits and comforts afforded to others, as Christians, we can be challenged that whatever our circumstances, Thanksgiving is a day in which we can offer worship to an amazing, good and holy God.

God loves a thankful heart.

When Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving as a national holiday, he asked that we remember to pray for “all those who have become widows, orphans, mourners, and sufferers.”

Jesus called us to do this as well.

As Christians, it’s imperative to remember those who suffer; those who often go without; and those who have lost their family.

Lincoln also asked that we pray for “the Almighty hand to heal the wounds of the nation and restore it.”

His proclamation ended with four words.

Peace, harmony, tranquility, and union — what the Wampanoags provided when they met 102 pilgrims: the gift of friendship and food.

This season remember it was compassion that led to thanksgiving.”

Taken from “Thanksgiving: A Day of Worship” from Tearfund.org