Thanksgiving Day is almost overlooked today due to the commercialization of black Friday, but the fact that most commercial activity is still paused on Thanksgiving Day should serve as a reminder of the importance of giving thanks. Setting aside time for giving thanks was a historic European tradition that was most famously documented in the United States by the Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts in 1621. Even though it was not formally documented, I’m certain the act of giving thanks was practiced by many other early U.S. settlers, much the same as prayer in school is not well documented, but probably practiced every day by many students facing tests.
The first presidential proclamation was made by George Washington in 1789. In part, the proclamation reads, “Now therefore I do recommend and assign Thursday the 26th day of November next to be devoted by the People of these States to the service of that great and glorious Being, who is the beneficent Author of all the good that was, that is, or that will be—That we may then all unite in rendering unto him our sincere and humble thanks—for his kind care and protection of the People of this Country previous to their becoming a Nation—for the signal and manifold mercies, and the favorable interpositions of his Providence which we experienced in the course and conclusion of the late war—for the great degree of tranquility, union, and plenty, which we have since enjoyed—for the peaceable and rational manner, in which we have been enabled to establish constitutions of government for our safety and happiness, and particularly the national One now lately instituted—for the civil and religious liberty with which we are blessed; and the means we have of acquiring and diffusing useful knowledge; and in general for all the great and various favors which he hath been pleased to confer upon us.”
I would argue that it is this very posture of humility and gratitude, which originates from personal faith and belief in a higher power, that prompts many people to practice philanthropy. Philanthropy is the love of mankind, and it can be demonstrated in physical and financial acts of charity. According to historians at the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, “Washington himself marked the day by attending services at St. Paul’s Chapel in New York City, and by donating beer and food to imprisoned debtors in the city.” What a great example for us today. Give thanks to God, then find a way to serve or help others. Of course, you should understand the context of Washington’s experience. There are many charities serving and ministering to those in prison today, and they are providing more constructive programs than delivering beer.
Faith organizations in our area are responsible for establishing and operating many charities that serve our neighbors in need. The list is too long to put in this column, but some recognizable faith-based nonprofits include Salvation Army, Bethesda Clinic, St. Paul Children’s Services, Christian Women’s Job Corps, and Hand Up Network. Each has a faith-inspired devotion to genuinely know and serve the needs of individuals reaching out for assistance. Faith-based charities have a tremendous advantage over secular charities because they offer spiritual as well as physical support for those seeking assistance. A government program can offer kindness and physical resources, but only a faith-based organization can offer faith, hope and love. I hope you will follow President George Washington’s advice from his first Thanksgiving in office and take time to give sincere thanks for the many blessings we enjoy, and allow your gratitude to motivate your philanthropy. Thanksgiving Day is also a great reminder that the year is almost over and if you want to make a gift and have it count for 2024, its time to get that done. Black Friday and Cyber Monday lead the way to Giving Tuesday this year on December 3rd.Many local nonprofits are encouraging year-end gifts via email and online campaigns for Giving Tuesday, including the United Way of Smith County through their Tyler Gives campaign. Through TylerGives.org, you can make designated gifts to over 25 United Way agencies, or one gift to support them all. Reflecting on your many blessings and channeling your gratitude into an act of philanthropy may be your next best opportunity to give well.
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