The Gospel lesson for Thanksgiving Day ordered by the BCP is Matthew's recalling the words of Jesus to "consider the lilies" as a way to understand that worrying is not as important a focus in one's spiritual life as would be trusting in God. The lectionary framers had something in mind more than just an encouragement to give thanks. Along with Matthew and in following Jesus they wanted us to see the close relationship that true gratitude towards God and deep trust in God have with each other.
So let us be cautious, at least, seeing as that our American popular culture and economic mythology calls us to rely on our consumption to save us the very next day after the one for which this lesson is chosen. The sirens of Black Friday are already sounding and one wonders how our prayers will compete.
Please take the time it takes to read Matthew 6:25-33 and consider as many of these questions as you can. They are the same questions we asked each other at our recent Community Thanksgiving service.
1. Jesus said “do not worry. . .
“ Do you worry? How?
2. How much is enough?
3. What possessions are the focus of
your worry?
4. How do others benefit when you
“strive first for the Kingdom of God?”
5. Did a stranger ever help you to
be at ease? How?
6. Describe how you felt when
someone else gave help you with an important necessity.
7. Does knowing what or how much you
have effect your giving or sharing? How?
8. To what needs in others around
you are you most likely to respond?
9. When is greed bad?
10. Have you or will you reduce(d) your consumption during the holiday?
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