In Theory

Thanksgiving is more an attitude of the heart than it is outward circumstances. Americans, more than any other people in the world, have much to be thankful for. We live in the greatest country on Earth; we have freedoms that are unparalleled. We have a living standard that, even in the midst of recession, is the envy of most of the world. Most of us are surrounded by family and loved ones in our homes and churches.

We live in a country where we can worship God freely. Our service men and women are willing to put their lives on the line to protect these God-given liberties at home, and secure them for others.

We would be wise to follow the example of King David who said in Psalm 30:12: “O Lord my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.” Thankfulness should be a part of every American’s life!

Pastor Dwight Tomlinson

Liberty Baptist Church of Newport Beach

We give thanks to God, in season and out of season, not primarily because things are going our way but because all creation is in the hands of a gracious and merciful God. Roman Catholics celebrate Eucharist (commonly called “Mass”) daily throughout the year. The word comes from the Greek, meaning “thanksgiving.” Whatever be the occasion, a joyful wedding or a tear-drenched funeral, the prayers of the Mass remain exactly the same, except for four brief prayers specific to the occasion.

We offer thanksgiving prayers in times of peace and war, abundance and famine for God is with us and for us; and that is what counts. This stretches our imagination. The cynic walks away. But we continue to be thankful. It is our act of faith that God will take our broken history and make us whole.

Msgr. Wilbur Davis

Our Lady Queen of Angels Catholic Church

Thanksgiving in its deepest spiritual meaning is not gratitude for what we have acquired or accomplished or received or even survived. Thanksgiving at its best is a recognition in our heart and soul and mind that God gives us life, and we cannot live well or right — with wholeness and holiness — without embracing and honoring that life. Once we make this recognition, we discover Thanksgiving is a spirit, not a day, a journey, not an action, an attitude, not a response, and a gift to be shared with others.

Pastor Mark Wiley

Mesa Verde United Methodist Church

Costa Mesa