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Thanksgiving: What Would Jesus Say?

Thanksgiving: What Would Jesus Say?

Last updated on: November 22, 2024 at 4:38 am by Dr. Teresa A. Smith, AKA Dr. TAS

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Thanksgiving: What Would Jesus Say? 2024-11-21T19:48:22-05:00 Dr. Teresa A. Smith, AKA Dr. TAS

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Thanksgiving is a time to gather, share a meal, and reflect on life’s blessings. But have you ever wondered, What would Jesus say at Thanksgiving dinner? Sure, He might comment on the turkey, potato salad, collards, green beans, and pumpkin pie, but more importantly, He’d guide our conversations beyond food to love, service, and gratitude. Imagine Jesus sitting at your table, turning an ordinary dinner into a heavenly feast of faith, kindness, and purpose with a side of good humor.

Thanksgiving: Give Thanks for Seen and Unseen Blessings

Jesus would start by reminding us to give thanks for not just the obvious blessings (like the mashed potatoes perfectly whipped without lumps) but also the unseen ones. In Matthew 6:26 NIV, He says, Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

At Thanksgiving, it’s easy to focus on material blessings like food, comfort, and, let’s be honest, Mama’s famous dressing. But Jesus would encourage us to notice the everyday miracles: the relationships that sustain us, the unexpected moments of peace, and the faith that helps us handle Uncle Fallie’s endless stories.

True abundance, He might say, isn’t about what’s on the table but about who’s at the table and the grace that surrounds us. So, while you’re passing the gravy, take a moment to reflect on your hidden blessings your health, your loved ones, and even the patience to sit through three hours of football commentary.

Family Thanksgiving Dinner Picture

Credit: Canva

Thanksgiving: Serve Others as Jesus Would

Jesus would remind us that Thanksgiving isn’t just about eating until your belt needs to be loosen. It’s about serving one another with humility and love. In Matthew 23:11 NIV, He says, The greatest among you will be your servant.

At the dinner table, imagine Jesus quietly offering to refill drinks, clear dishes, or even carve the turkey—without needing an applause break. We can follow His example through simple acts of kindness: serving seconds to someone, offering dessert to the one who claims they’re “on a diet,” or making sure everyone has a seat (even if you’re squeezed into the folding chair from the garage).

When we serve others, we reflect Jesus’ love. He might even joke, “If you don’t serve the pie now, I’ll help myself!” Thanksgiving isn’t just about receiving; it’s about giving especially in the small gestures that warm hearts and fill bellies.

Thanksgiving: Remember the Least of These

Thanksgiving is a season of abundance, but Jesus would challenge us to extend our blessings beyond our immediate circle. In Matthew 25:40 NIV, The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’

What might this look like? Donate to a food bank, prepare a plate for a neighbor in need, or invite someone to join your celebration, even if they’re a Bears fan. Jesus would remind us that gratitude isn’t complete unless we share it.

So, as you scoop up that second helping of sweet potatoes, ask yourself: How can I share my abundance with others? After all, you can only eat so many leftovers before they start looking like science experiments.

Bless This Meal and the Hands That Prepared It

Jesus always gave thanks before a meal, as seen in John 6:11 MSG when He fed the 5,000. No pressure, but that makes feeding your family seem like a piece of cake or pie.

He’d urge us to not only bless the food but to appreciate everyone involved in making it happen from the farmers who grew it, to the cooks who prepared it, and even the dishwasher who tackles the gravy-covered chaos afterward.

“Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t just appear by miracle,” Jesus might quip, “although I’ve done it before!” A little gratitude for the people who made the meal possible can transform Thanksgiving into a true celebration of love and labor.

Thanksgiving Gratitude in Action

For Jesus, gratitude is more than a feeling it’s something we do. Paul writes in 1 Thessalonians 5:18 ESV, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.

How can you turn thankfulness into action? Jesus might suggest forgiving a family member for past squabbles (even if they’re still bringing it up at every family gathering), helping a neighbor in need, or complimenting the chef for the perfectly cooked turkey, whether it’s true or not.

Gratitude in action could even mean volunteering or dropping off leftovers to someone who might appreciate them. After all, nothing says “I care,” like sharing that last slice of sweet potato pie.

Picture of woman praying

Credit: www.universityofcalifornia.edu

Let Go of Worry & Trust in God’s Provision

Thanksgiving often comes with its share of stress: Will the turkey be dry? Will Aunt Shirely bring that casserole again? Jesus would encourage us to set aside our worries and trust in God’s care. In Matthew 6:34 MSG, Give your entire attention to what God is doing right now, and don’t get worked up about what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.

Jesus might laugh and add, “And don’t worry about the turkey. Trust me. I’ve got a history with loaves and fishes.” This holiday, focus on the blessings of the moment: the meal, the laughter, and even the chaos of family traditions. When we let go of our worries, we create space for joy and peace.

Thanksgiving: Love One Another Deeply

At its core, Thanksgiving is about love. In John 15:12 NLT, Jesus commands, … Love each other in the same way I have loved you.

Jesus would challenge us to show love in simple ways by forgiving someone who took the last cornbread muffin, extending grace to a sibling who brings up old rivalries, or ensuring everyone feels welcome, even if they don’t eat cranberry sauce.

Love, He’d remind us, is the greatest gift we can offer. So this Thanksgiving, pile it on like gravy: generously and without reservation.

Thanksgiving with Jesus’ Presence

Finally, Jesus would remind us that He’s always present at our gatherings. In Matthew 18:20 TLB, For where two or three gather together because they are mine, I will be right there among them.

Imagine Him smiling at the joy of your family’s traditions whether that’s sharing stories, laughing over spilled gravy, or arguing about whether it’s pronounced pecan or pee-can. Thanksgiving is a sacred moment, made even more special when we recognize His presence.

Making Thanksgiving Meaningful with Jesus’ Wisdom

Imagine Jesus sitting at your table this Thanksgiving, cracking a few jokes and sharing profound wisdom. His words would guide us to reflect on gratitude, serve others, love deeply, and let go of stress.

With His touch, Thanksgiving becomes more than just a meal. It’s a practice of faith, generosity, and humor. So pass the gravy, laugh a little, and make this Thanksgiving a true celebration of love and gratitude.

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About Dr. Teresa A. Smith, aka Dr. TAS

Dr. Teresa A. Smith (Dr. TAS) is a professor, best-selling author, certified counselor, and empowerment speaker whose mission is to help people heal, grow, and thrive through faith. As host of Talk With TAS and Transform With TAS, she shares unfiltered conversations, soul-nourishing strategies, and practical tools for overcoming adversity, burnout, and life transitions. She is also a Contributing Writer for Conversations Magazine, where she shares stories of healing, resilience, and purpose. Through her books, shows, writing, and speaking, Dr. TAS empowers individuals and communities to rise strong and live boldly in their God-given purpose. You can read more about the author here.

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