Not everybody likes turkey.
Really?
Yep. Some find it bland, uninspired, and over-hyped. Others say it tastes like chicken and if they wanted chicken for Thanksgiving they would cook one, or get take-out.
Maybe that explains the gallons of delicious brown gravy, a beloved food group.
It’s Iconic
Millions of Americans will have a traditional turkey dinner. Some because they love it and some because it’s traditional, for the turkey is the icon of Thanksgiving. Is that a good reason to have it, because its traditional?
3.5 Millennium
About 3500 years ago, a million slaves walked out of Ramses. The final straw for their freedom? It was the death of Egypt’s first-born sons, a terrible night of grief. But it was a very different night for the slaves. They had painted lamb’s blood on their doors, and so death passed over.
That evening the slaves ate a special meal, the Passover meal. It was special because of what it meant, and because it was their final meal in captivity. There are some interesting similarities between the Hebrews and the Pilgrims.
The Hebrew Slaves
- Ate roasted lamb
- Shared with family and neighbors
- It was a meal symbolizing their freedom
- The meal was about leaving for the Promised Land
The Pilgrims
- Ate roasted turkey
- Shared with family and friends
- It was a meal symbolizing their freedom
- The meal was about coming to the New World
Their Gift
If not for our Pilgrim forefathers, our world may have turned out differently. Would the United States have even happened? Would we know and enjoy the religious, political, and social freedoms that we cherish? Do we owe them our gratitude?
Our Response
Each November, we gather around our tables to give thanks. We practice the grace of gratitude by remembering those who sacrificed so much to bless so many.
We say thank you God!
To Close
Whether you adore or abhor the turkey, let’s resolve that 45-million of them will not die in vain. Along with the food, the football, and the naps, let’s take a moment to say thank you on Thanksgiving Day.
For we are free, prosperous, and alive to enjoy it.
