Remember them which have the rule over you, who have spoken unto you the word of God: whose faith follow, considering the end of their conversation. Hebrews 13:7
What makes a lasting impression? There is a scene from the Christian Movie, “Facing the Giants,” in which the coach asks the team, “Who won the state championship five years ago?” The team and even the coaches searched their memories and made guesses, but no one got it right. Now, I have a question for you. Who made a lasting impression on you? Most of us will remember one person immediately who left a lasting impression. Here is another one: What event stands out the most to you? Again the answer will vary in a crowd, but many events will leave such an impression.
When we think back on the Pilgrim event of the Thanksgiving celebration, those that are able to put themselves in the front roll seat will get the greatest impression. I think those that have a love of history can do this best, but imagine the scenes your eyes capture. Only fifty-three Europeans amongst ninety Indian Braves. There are only four remaining women cooking, supervising the lot and several younger women working as well. Small children running about the small village, while twenty-two men visited and worshiped together with their neighbors.
Now imagine the scenery. Virgin forests surround a make shift fort. In the distance the ocean is seen and the beauty of the surroundings are interrupted by the shanties of makeshift cabins. There are also homemade tables and benches for folks to sit upon, even though the Indians probably sit on the ground, and soon all the men are gathered, ready to eat. There was prayer offered to thank the Lord for His goodness and care, as well as a blessing over the food. This was a common practice, even though we don’t know who offered the prayer. Soon, the mouth watering foods were served.
Today, we think one day is enough, imagine three days. Once again, the Pilgrims and Indians didn’t just eat, they also engaged in sport. Sometimes the weapons were brought out, even guns. The old guns were hardly any match for the bow and arrow, but the noise and white smoke of the gunpowder was pretty impressive.
More than anything we should remember that it was an event unto the Lord. As the celebration wore on, the men from both parties learned the value of love and laughter. Sadly, many only want to focus on the negative. Yes, sinful things happened, but we must remember that there was a heart of gratitude and love in the beginning. Do we have such a heart?
Think about it….
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