We are called to give thanks throughout the year

Our turkey and all the fixings may cost a little more this year, but being together with family is priceless. Thanksgiving is an excellent time to reflect on the many blessings in our life. As many families did not gather for Thanksgiving last year due to the pandemic, we are thankful to be together in person this year. 
In St. Paul’s first letter to the Thessalonians, he said, “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18) 
Of course, we are called to give thanks throughout the year, not just on Thanksgiving. However, the month of November presents countless opportunities to answer our call to give thanks.
After a hot summer, we are certainly thankful for the cooler temperatures and the display of fall colors in November. In addition to nature, we have many celebrations throughout the month that call for thanksgiving. The month begins with the feast of All Saints Day, a holy day that gives us the opportunity to show our thanks for the examples of stewardship and holiness set by all those in Heaven. Following is All Souls Day, a day to remember, give thanks and pray for the souls of our faithful departed. On Nov. 11, Veterans Day, we show our thanks to all those who served our great country to defend our freedom. The month ends with Thanksgiving Day, the feast of Christ the King, the first Sunday of Advent and Giving Tuesday. November is clearly packed with reasons to count our many blessings and give thanks to our Lord. 
The Bible is filled with scripture teaching us to give thanks to our Lord always and in everything. In Psalm 100:4 we are told to “Give thanks to God, bless his name.”  In Jeremiah 33:11 we are told to “…Give thanks to the Lord Almighty …” St. Paul was passionate about giving thanks to our Lord. He reminds us in almost every letter he wrote that we are called to be thankful to God in all that we do.  
God has blessed each of us in so many ways. Let’s remember to embrace an attitude of gratitude in all that we do every day but especially this Thanksgiving as we spend it with our loved ones.  
­­— Shannon Roh is the Executive Director of the Office of Development and Stewardship for the Archdiocese of Mobile.