A couple of years ago I attended an ecumenical service as part of my Thanksgiving celebration. Worship leaders from our sister Catholic and Episcopal churches took their turn, but I was most impressed by the offering meditation by Rabbi James Mirel.
Ushers began to line up to pass the offering baskets, and then Rabbi said, “Wait, I’m going to ask them to give more.” (A statement greeted by warm laughter.) He began to speak in a friendly, but serious, tone.
If you have someone to share Thanksgiving with tomorrow, add another dollar to your offering.
If you have someplace warm to go tonight after service, add another dollar.
If you own the place that you’re going to, add another dollar.
If you have a job to go to on Monday, add another dollar.
If you are blessed with a loving family and good friends, add another dollar.
On and on he went. Not in a sanctimonious way, but in a way that quietly humbled everyone in the room. Each of us had even more than we thought to be grateful for.
It is my wish for you that you will have a truly blessed Thanksgiving. And if you have any of the things Rabbi Mirel mentioned, the next time you have a chance, add another dollar.
