Sermon

Today, the last day of the year as we look back, we are bound to thank God for all his wonderful guidance throughout this year and come to his presence with praise and thanksgiving. “Be thankful” (Col. 3:15). This is the teaching of the word of God. Not only for the past year, let us thank God of each and every day of our lives. In the days of the Old Testament, thanksgiving offering was offered to God (Lev.7:11-21). The first fruit was also offered as a thankoffering (Deut. 26:1-11). Thanking God honestly from the bottom our hearts is also a thank offering (Heb 13:15; Hos. 14:2; Psalms 69:30, 31; 119:108).  Saint Paul taught to request God all our needs with thanksgiving (Phil. 4:6, 7). Always give thanks for everything (Eph 5:19, 20; 1Thes.5:18). Be abound in praise (Col2:7). Paul gave such admonitions. He who offers the sacrifice of thanksgiving glorifies the Lord (Psalms 50:14, 23).

1. Offers heartfelt Thanksgiving (2Sam6:1-15).

David says to praise God. The incidents related to the situation when the Ark of the Covenant has been brought from the house of Abhinadab are being related here. Out of ignorance David was bring the ark in bullock cart which was supported to be carried by the priests. God was angry and the bullocks were frightened. Uzzah lifted up his hand and held the ark as to prevent it from falling. But God’s anger killed Uzzah then and there. Learning a lesson from the incident afterwards David brought the ark as required by the law (2 Sam.6:12-23). He learns that praising and worshipping God should be according to God’s rules. Thankoffering should be observed that the Lord will accepted it (Lev. 22:29). Unleavened bread (thin bread) and cakes are to be offered to God as thankoffering (Lev. 7:12-14; Deut 26:1-11). Unholy life and false devotion are represented by the leavened dough (1 Cor. 5:7, 8; Lk 12:1; Matt. 16:12).

2. Come to the presence of the Lord with thanksgiving (Lk 17:11-19).

Ten lepers were healed. Only one person came back. He praised God aloud. He fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him. Seeing the devotion of this Samaritan Jesus asked “Ten are healed, where are the nine others?” (Lk 17:18). This incident helps us to remember all benefits what the Lord has done and come to his presence and give thanks to him. The former American President George Washington celebrated the 3rd October 1789 as ‘Thanksgiving’ Day. Even to day, this day is being observed to thank God and men. The famous writer and counselor Norman Vincent Peale said, “Look back to book a head”. When we are stumbled in our progressing journeys our past experiences encourage us – the ways in which the Lord has lead us. 

3. Always give thanks (Colo.3:12-17).

Paul challenges us not only during the worship services but always to be with thankful heart (Eph 5:19, 20; Col. 3:15-17; 1 Thess. 5:18). In all words and actions always thank God. Thank both God and men.

Prayer

Everlasting God, the Creator and sustainer of the whole creation, our times are in Your hands; as You have brought us to the end of a year in ways mysterious to us, enable us to put our trust in You fully so that we may truly experience Your blessings each day of our lives and also inherit life eternal; through Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, One God, now and forever more. Amen.