Upper Seneca Baptist Church
Saturday, October 25, 2025
Our Mission: Impacting the Kingdom of God one person at a time

Newsletter November

Thanksgiving is that special time of year when we gather around the table with loved ones, give thanks for our blessings, and awkwardly pretend we like cranberry sauce. For Christians, though, it’s more than just turkey and football — it’s a reminder that gratitude is not just seasonal, it’s spiritual.

Sure, there’s the chaos of cooking, the annual debate over who gets the turkey leg, and the mystery of how one family can produce seven different types of pie. But underneath the stuffing and sweet potatoes lies a deeper truth: Thanksgiving is a chance to pause and recognize God’s faithfulness in our lives — even if the mashed potatoes are lumpy.

Christians know that giving thanks isn’t just a once-a-year event. Scripture is filled with reminders to live with a heart of gratitude. Paul told the Thessalonians to “give thanks in all circumstances,” which is easy to say until you’re stuck in traffic with a thawing turkey in the backseat and a pie that slid off the passenger seat. Still, we try.

Thanksgiving is a time to remember that everything we have — from the roof over our heads to the rolls on the table — is a gift from God. It’s a time to reflect on His provision, His grace, and yes, even His sense of humor, which is clearly on display when Uncle Bob tries to deep-fry a turkey in the driveway. It’s also a time for family, even the ones who show up three hours late and bring a “creative” version of a green bean casserole.
But through the burnt rolls, the overcooked bird, and the inevitable political debate that somehow breaks out over dessert, Thanksgiving remains a beautiful opportunity to gather, laugh, and give thanks to the One who makes it all possible.

So, this Thanksgiving, as you sit around the table and try to remember what you’re thankful for (besides stretchy pants), take a moment to thank God for His goodness and His love.
Because in the end, Thanksgiving isn’t just about the food — it’s about our faith and trust in God.