Thanksgiving didn’t start with the Pilgrims. Throughout history and all around the world people have celebrated bountiful harvests. Medieval Europeans observed Lammas Day in August and Martinmas Day in November. Each festival had its own traditions, such as religious observances; giving of thanks; and, just like our Thanksgiving, plenty of food! Martinmas marked the end of the harvest season. It was observed with a church service (mass) in the morning. The rest of the day was filled with games, parades and a traditional roast goose for dinner. (….hmmm, football game, Macy’s parade and turkey!) There was much to celebrate but there was also much work to be done. Food had to be prepared and preserved for the cold winter months ahead.
During this era lived a monk we’ve come to know as St. Francis of Assisi. I’ve recently heard the story behind a song he wrote. The nature-loving priest is said to have written “All Creatures of Our God and King” after preaching a sermon about praising the Lord- to a flock of birds!
All creatures of our God and King
Lift up your voice and with us sing,
Alleluia! Alleluia!
Thou burning sun with golden beam,
Thou silver moon with softer gleam!
O praise Him! O praise Him!
Alleluia! Alleluia! Alleluia!
Maybe Francis remembered that Jesus said if we don’t praise him, the stones will cry out with praises! (Luke 19:40). Let us take our cue from St. Francis and lift our voices with all creation! And just as those long ago prepared food for the long winter, let us prepare our hearts!
“Encourage each other with songs, hymns and spiritual songs. Sing and make music in your hearts to the Lord. Always give thanks to God, the Father, for everything in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ.” –Ephesians 5:19-20
Radiate. 