I belong to a liturgical church. We practice ways of doing things that we call sacraments.
Sacraments are actions that are physical, visible ways to remind us of deeper spiritual truths. For example, we do things that demonstrate outwardly the ways we inwardly receive each other in love, are dependent on the sacred and on each other, and draw life from the world around us.
One sacrament that we practice every week in our church is called Eucharist. We gather together each week and share a meal. We take time to reflect, to listen, and to appreciate the gifts and blessings that fill our lives. The name “Eucharist” comes from a Greek word that is translated in English as “thanksgiving.” We share a Thanksgiving meal every week.
Sacraments are important because they remind us of deeper truths. It is easy to get caught up in making sure that we are practicing each sacrament well, that we are doing it right. We do not practice sacraments to earn more points; we practice to be reminded.
The Thanksgiving we will celebrate next week is the same. It is easy to get distracted in making sure that the food is exactly right, that we stick to a planned schedule, that everything looks perfect. What is important is that we are reminded of deeper truths.
For me, recognizing the deeper truths takes practice. I tend to get focused on getting everything exactly the way I want it. Year after year, week after week, day after day, I need to take time to breathe, remember, and be grateful. Practicing helps me become better at it.
How will you take time to reflect, to listen, to appreciate this Thanksgiving?
What are the deeper truths of this Thanksgiving for you?
[Image by GlasgowAmateur]
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