The First Thanksgiving...

The Pilgrims at the First Thanksgiving were all Mayflower survivors- 4 married women, 5 adolescent girls, 9 adolescent boys, 12 children and 22 men- 52 people. The original passengers of the Mayflower totaled 102.

The reason they were here:

The Mayflower Compact

In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are under written, the loyal subjects of our dread Sovereign Lord, King James...
Having undertaken, for the Glory of God and advancement of the Christian Faith and Honour of our King and Country, a Voyage to plant the First Colony in the Northern parts of Virginia....

Despite their heartbreak- they were filled with gratitude that first Thanksgiving. "But these things did not dismay them (though they did sometimes trouble them) for their desires sat on the ways of God, and to enjoy His ordinances; but they rested on His providence and knew whom they had believed." - William Bradford, of Plymouth Plantation

Yesterday I sat down to make a list of all the things I am grateful for this year- and I still haven't finished. God has been so faithful to me, and so amazingly patient. I started out this year with the foolish belief that I was close with God, and walking the walk well- and through trials, and struggle- pain, and heartache; God showed me my fault, and has drawn me near- closer to Him then I have ever been. I can't praise Him or glorify Him enough for His goodness- and for giving me Jesus. There aren't words. The Lord of the Universe- the One True God- is so huge, and so totally satisfying, my peanut brain cannot comprehend.
Thank you, Father, for my husband and kiddos- a family of love and acceptance, of forgiveness and grace. Thank you for my great country, that no matter what is coming, you created me to be born an American, with freedom, a land that was founded on your very Word, and the love of your Son.
Lord, as I compile my list, may my heart be so full of gratitude, and my praise so truthful- it causes you to smile.