“By faith Moses’ parents hid him for three months after he was born, because they saw he was no ordinary child, and they were not afraid of the king’s edict.” (Hebrews 11:23)
The author of Hebrews tells us that Moses’ parents defied Pharaoh for two reasons: vision and courage. They had a vision of the future in their son, Moses – they “saw” God’s hand on him. That faith gave them courage to defy Pharaoh. It turns out they were right. That vision was so powerful, they risked their own lives to see it come about.
Believe it or not, Thanksgiving is already here. When I read that verse, I can’t help but think of the “separatists,” later known as pilgrims, who came to our shores so many years ago. They, too, were motivated by vision and courage.
They defied the English church in order to stay true to God’s Word. Later they braved dangerous seas and wild, dangerous country before they celebrated that first Thanksgiving feast. What was so powerful that would drive them to this? Their vision for the future…freedom to worship the one true God according to Scripture and conscience…and freedom from tyranny. As Katherine Lee Bates wrote:
“O beautiful for pilgrim feet, whose stern impassioned stress,
a thoroughfare for freedom beat across the wilderness.”
O. Henry says of the day: “There is one day that is ours. Thanksgiving Day is the one day that is purely American.” You and I have so much to be thankful for!
I know, like me, you’ll be counting these blessings this week. Among the blessings I’m counting will be you. Thank you for your vision for this church and the courage to follow through!
Happy Thanksgiving!
Pastor Jim
