Thanksgiving (United States)

Thanksgiving (United States)

Prayer

Gracious God,
On this day, as we gather with family and friends to give thanks for all the good we have received, help us remember that sharing our blessings with others is part of our calling in life. It was through generous offerings and open invitations, so many years ago, that we became a nation celebrating the goodness of people coming together. As we carry that tradition forward, we thank you for your abundant, unconditional love. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “Unconditional love is rare. When we see it in ourselves or anyone else, let’s draw close to it like we are warming ourselves by a fire. We are learning something about God’s long covenants of love.” ~Kate Bowler   Prayer

Prayer

God of boundless compassion,
Thank you for the glimpses of unconditional love we experience through the kindness, forgiveness, and tenderness of those around us. Let these earthly expressions of love remind us of your steady presence, holding us even when we falter. Teach us to offer the same grace to others, becoming instruments of healing and hope. May every moment of love we give and receive draw us closer to your heart. We pray, Amen.

     

 
   “You treat a disease: you win, you lose. You treat a person, I guarantee you win, no matter the outcome.”  ~Hunter “Patch” Adams   Prayer   God of compassion,  In health care, we face many diseases each day, each affecting people in

Prayer

God of compassion,

In health care, we face many diseases each day, each affecting people in unique ways. Yet even more important, we meet the faces of those seeking comfort and care. When we treat the whole person—beginning with their dignity—we begin their healing process. May the love and compassion we share reflect the love you have for them and allowing them to know of your presence. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “The best things happen at the exit ramp of your comfort zone.” ~Karen Salmansohn   Prayer   God of new paths,  It is easy to grow comfortable in our routines, choosing what feels safe and familiar. Yet you call us beyond th

Prayer

God of new paths,
It is easy to grow comfortable in our routines, choosing what feels safe and familiar. Yet you call us beyond that comfort, into places where deeper meaning and greater impact can be found. Give us courage to stretch ourselves, trusting that you are the One guiding our steps. With open hearts and steadfast faith, we pray. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “The first wealth is health.” ~Ralph Waldo Emerson   Prayer   Creator God,  You made us in your image—an image of love, kindness, and compassion. Yet we know this is not always easy to live out, for our human hearts can be s

Prayer

Creator God,
You made us in your image—an image of love, kindness, and compassion. Yet we know this is not always easy to live out, for our human hearts can be stubborn and self-focused. Remind us that caring for our own well-being allows us to love as you love and to serve with fullness of heart. As we tend to the needs of others, help us also to tend to our own health, so we may give our best in service and love. Amen.

     

 
    Reflection   “The best antidote to helplessness is doing something helpful.” ~Adam Grant   Prayer   Lord of guidance,  When we help others, we often feel a spark of joy in our hearts—yet it can fade quickly as helplessness returns in the

Prayer

Lord of guidance,
When we help others, we often feel a spark of joy in our hearts—yet it can fade quickly as helplessness returns in the face of the world’s many struggles. In a world filled with need, show us how we can make a difference, even in small ways. Guide our hands to reach out in times of need and open our eyes to see that in helping others, we ourselves are blessed and renewed. We thank you for your steady hand that leads us forward. Amen.