Father Rick’s Gospel Reflection for Thanksgiving Day

November 27, 2025, Luke 17:11-19

https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/112725-Thanksgiving.cfm

For what are you thankful?

We are truly grateful to have a day to thank God for all His many blessings. The first Thanksgiving in America was celebrated in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1623. The initial Thanksgiving Eucharist was celebrated in the Upper Room in Jerusalem, around 33 AD.

We have so much to be thankful for: our faith, our country, our freedom, our families, the food we share today around our tables, and the food we share with people experiencing poverty who have no table of their own.

When we come to the table with Jesus this Thanksgiving Day, we are grateful for many blessings. Still, the greatest blessing that comes to my mind is the Eucharist, which means thanksgiving.

For 2000 years, we have faithfully celebrated the Holy Mass in gratitude for all of God’s blessings. But more important is how Jesus has remained steadfast in coming to us in the form of bread and wine.

His humility strikes me as I participate in the consecration at Mass, holding Jesus. He humbles Himself to be present in our bodies, souls, minds, and hearts as we go through our days and weeks. He never wants us to do anything without Him.

The early Fathers of the Church had a saying, “We become what we eat, the Body of Christ,” and I add, “for each other.”

Gospel Challenge:
I challenge you and me to consider: Is there a more incredible blessing than Jesus giving Himself to us in Holy Communion? Reflect on how this gift deepens our gratitude and faith, as Jesus said, “I came that you may have life and have it to the full” (John 10:10).

Let us express our gratitude to Jesus for every opportunity we have to approach Him worthily in Holy Communion and to become the Bread of Life for each other, fostering a spirit of thankfulness and faithfulness in our community.

Happy Thanksgiving, everyone.

Love Your Neighbor!

Fr. Rick Pilger, I.C.
www.bscchurch.com