Reflection for Thursday, November 26, 1998: Thanksgiving.

Abstract

"Now bless the God of all Who has done wonderful things on earth." This verse sets the tone for the eucharistic celebration here on the Creighton campus this Thanksgiving Day.||In the second reading we hear Paul giving thanks to God for the members of his community to who he sends God's blessings. He reminds the community of the rich gifts with which they have been endowed, "in Christ Jesus." Paul continues reminding the community that the God of their gifts is faithful to strengthen them to the end.||We see in today's gospel, one of the ten lepers who were cured, returning to give God thanks. It can appear that Jesus is not very grateful Himself that only this one has returned, "Where are those other guys whom I healed?" Obviously we are encouraged to return to God and give God praise and thanks for our personal healings and gifts as well as God's goodness in creating and caring for all of God's creatures.|We are called by these readings to pray also on behalf of the "other nine," those beloved of God who take things "for" granted rather than "as" granted. We present the perfect act of Thanksgiving in our joining in the Eucharist, the Thanksgiving of Christ for all "the ten" of us who enjoy God's favor.|Our prayer today is to give thanks to God by reverently receiving all of God's care for us and our world. We extend our hands to receive the Eucharistic gift which is both God's pledge to always be the Giver and our pledge to try to always be the grateful receiver. "May He grant you joy of heart and may peace abide among you." It is a Happy Day of Giving Thanks to You God, from all "ten" of us.