East notes the practices of early pilgrims and says that they would certainly approve of laden tables, family fellowship, and afternoons full of football.  What early American settlers would disagree with our current practices is that our feast days have no fast days to balance them.

Although she does not quite name it, what East suggests is really a reminder that God is the giver of all good things.  And although we can say prayers of thanksgiving this Thursday, it might be worth thinking about how we take time to reflect on our abundance and the world's need at some point in our lives.  To do so would show how grateful we really are!

May your Thanksgiving bring the joy of know the deep bounty of God's love!