Why Thanksgiving Matters
As I prepare to host family and friends today, I have been thinking of all the work we do to prepare the meal. Now we know that Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey, football, and pumpkin pie—it’s a chance to hit pause and refocus on what we are grateful for, something we all need. Thanksgiving has deep American roots, but it’s also tied to a big Kingdom principle: living a life of gratitude.
The Pilgrims who celebrated the first Thanksgiving in 1621 had it rough. Nearly half didn’t survive their first winter after arriving in the New World. But with God’s provision and help from the Native Americans, they harvested their first crops and threw a feast to give thanks. It wasn’t just about the food; it was about worshiping God for seeing them through.
For us as Christians, gratitude isn’t just for Thanksgiving—it’s a lifestyle. Psalm 100:4 says: “Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise!” Gratitude shifts our focus from our frustrations to God’s faithfulness. And Paul’s words in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 challenge us to “give thanks in all circumstances.” Even when life is messy, gratitude reminds us of God’s unchanging love and daily grace to overcome whatever is in our way.
Liz and I want you to know how thankful we are for you—our Kingdom City family. Thank you for your faithfulness, your servant-heartedness, and passion for Jesus. This Thanksgiving, as we are all hanging out with friends and family, eating our 2nd plate, and watching football (I’m grateful for the Chiefs), let’s take a moment to thank God for His grace, His love, and the people He’s placed in our lives.
We love being on the journey with you. We have a great future ahead of us. Happy Thanksgiving, Kingdom City Church! Let’s keep living out gratitude every day.
- Kyle + Liz
