Hugh McGinlay: Thanksgiving Day Prayer

“One’s life does not consist in the abundance of possessions.” Luke 12:15b

On Thanksgiving Day, we acknowledge God’s blessings and the bounty of our land. In a spirit of thanksgiving we approach our God for what we need.

For a deeper awareness of God’s goodness. (pause)
May we gladly acknowledge the goodness of our God and the many gifts we receive at God’s hands, recalling the kindness God has shown to our communities and to our nation. Lord hear us.

For an attitude of thanksgiving in our lives. (pause)
May we be people who give thanks for the favor of God and the fellowship of Christ. May our strength be in the gospel and our lives witnesses to its teachings. Lord hear us.

For a sense of what is important in life. (pause)
As a nation and as a community, may we know what is of ultimate value in life, not consumed by a desire for wealth but eager to live by the gospel through lives of moderation and gentleness. Lord hear us.

For a desire to be rich in God’s sight. (pause)
As God’s people in God’s world, may we learn from the example of Jesus, who lived not for Himself but for others; and may we so live by His teaching to be rich in the sight of God. Lord hear us.

God of the promises, you are generous in your gifts to us. Help us to be faithful disciples of Jesus in our nation and our communities. We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Hugh McGinlay in Prayers of the Faithful: For Sundays, Feasts, and Seasons (Mahwah: Paulist Press, 2006) 139.

The advertisers are bombarding us with “Happy Thanksgetting” messages! We must tune out their messages and tune in to the gospel. To live different from the world and consistent with the teachings of Jesus we need God’s help.

Father, hear our prayer and make it so by your Holy Spirit in each of our lives for your glory, we ask in the name of Jesus. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving!

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