The greatest treasure is Christ

To the Editor, 

In 1621, pilgrim Edward Winslow, an assistant to Plymouth Colony’s Governor William Bradford wrote: 

“Our harvest being gotten in, our Governor sent four men on fowling; that so we might, after a more special manner, rejoice together, after we had gathered the fruit of our labours. They four, in one day, killed as much fowl as, with a little help besides, served the Company almost a week. At which time, amongst other recreations, we exercised our Arms; many of the Indians coming amongst us… For three days, we entertained and feasted.” 

Thus, it appears that the First Thanksgiving focused on thanks for earthly treasure, particularly an abundance of food from the harvest and wild game. 

While it is perfectly appropriate to give thanks for earthly treasures, Christians have a greater treasure to be thankful for. 

Our just God declared that “the wages of sin is Death” meaning, for those not saved, eternal death, not a transitory death. But God also loved the world and sent his Son, Jesus Christ, as a human being to be sacrificed for us. Jesus was both truly God and man. He was born in a stable and laid in a manger. He lived a sinless life, preaching, teaching, doing good and performing miracles. Despite his perfect innocence, he was unjustly convicted, horribly scourged, and crucified on a cross at Calvary. He took the punishment for us that we deserved as the wages of sin. And, after his death, He was raised from the dead. God promises us that all who believe in Christ has purchased forgiveness of sins for us, and accept that gift, shall also be raised to a new enteral life. After a brief sojourn on earth, Christ ascended into heaven. He shall return to judge the living and the dead. 

Forgiveness of sins and eternal life in heaven is a gift freely given to those who believe in Jesus Christ. It cannot be earned. It is given by grace and acquired through faith. Pray to God and ask for faith, for understanding of this miracle and for the gift of forgiveness purchased by the blood of Christ. Give thanks for this, the greatest treasure. 

May you have a blessed Thanksgiving.

Donald W. Bohlken

Indianola, Iowa