Loading...Dear Friends in Christ,
I pray that you will have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving. We have so much to be thankful for. With all the problems we face as a united people, the United States of America is still the best place in the whole universe to live. Besides the holiday of thanks giving this month, which we should do every day, we have the privilege, opportunity, and obligation to vote. I pray that you do.
In 1976, the Civitan Club of Bluefield, WV, buried a time capsule which is to be opened at a celebration of the 300th birthday of our great country. At that occasion, the Rev. Dr. W. Reece Burns gave the invocation. His words still ring out for us in this important time of Thanksgiving, but also, in this troubled time in our country. Please read his prayer often.
Almighty God, Creator of the Universe and the Ruler of all people of the earth! In gratitude we remember You have given us this good land for our heritage. In Memory, we acknowledge those who diligently pursued Your will in bringing to birth this nation that it should love freedom and honor justice. For two hundred years of history as a nation we give You our thanks.
Bless the future with honorable industry, sound learning, and serving hands. Save us from violence, discord, and confusion from selfish pride and arrogance, and from every evil way. Fashion us into one united people; brought together from many races, classes, origins, and kinds, where peace and justice prevails. Give, we pray, humility and true wisdom to those in whom we entrust the authority of government, now, and in the coming years. In times of trouble may we not fail to trust in You, and in prosperity fill our hearts with thanksgiving.
Bless this celebration, that it may call us to a new and deeper dedication to the idea of love and service. May we, the people of this city, this county, this state, this nation build the future according to Your Holy Will.
In the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, world without end. Amen.
Maybe we should especially pray this invocation as we give thanks this Thanksgiving. May God continue to bless us and our country.
In Christ’s Love,
Father Russ
