In 1621, the pilgrims celebrated the first Thanksgiving in America and thanked God for bringing them through a hard winter where half of them died. America has a long history of public thanksgiving. In 1787, President Washington issued a proclamation thanking God for allowing Americans to “peaceably establish a form of government for their safety and happiness.” In the midst of the Civil War, President Lincoln asked “the Almighty Hand to heal the wounds of the nation and to restore it.” In an age of self-centeredness and ingratitude, may we look outside ourselves and recognize God for the many good gifts and blessings He’s given us. Let’s start around our dinner table today. And may each of you enjoy a wonderful Thanksgiving!