There is an old European story about a traveler who came upon a barn where the devil had stored seed. He had plans to plant these seeds in the hearts of people. The bags all had different labels. Some were marked "Hatred," "Fear," "Doubt," "Despair," "Resentment," "Pride," "Lust," "Greed," etc.
As the traveler was gazing upon the bags the devil appeared and struck up a conversation. He told the traveler how easily the seeds he sowed had sprouted in the hearts of men and women. The traveler then asked a question, "Are there any hearts in which these seeds will not sprout?"
A look of gloom came over the devil's face. He said, "These seeds will not sprout in the heart of a thankful and joyful person."
Maybe that is why the Old Testament proclaims, “Enter into his gates with thanksgiving, and into his courts with praise: to be thankful unto him and to bless his name.” (Psalm 100:4).
Perhaps that is why the Apostle Paul wrote, “In everything give thanks. For this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.” (I Thessalonians 5:18)
On this Thanksgiving maybe we can begin to do that very thing. In the midst of shopping, watching football on television and eating, let’s take time to express our gratitude to our Creator for all the blessings of life that we so often take for granted.
Happy Thanksgiving!