He brought us to this place and gave us this land, a land flowing with milk and honey. (Deut. 26:9)
Expanded Passage: Deuteronomy 26:9-11
Chief Massasoit lost over half his tribe to illness brought by European fishermen, probably during the time that the Puritans were hoping to sail to the New World. Delays meant they sailed in autumn, not spring, and arrived ill-prepared in icy weather. More than half of them died that first winter. Though Europeans had brought them heartache and death, certain Native Americans extended aid, including Chief Massasoit. They taught Puritans how to hunt, fish and garden in their new land so that, come autumn, they celebrated with homes to live in, meeting houses for governance and worship, and a plentitude of foods.
The first Thanksgiving had commenced! Chief Massasoit turned up with many of his men, bringing venison to add to their banquet. A three-day feast! Despite all their losses, the Puritans and Native Americans had a glorious time, with all sorts of games and competitions.
Like the Pilgrims, the children of Israel suffered death and hardship in the wilderness, costing many of them their dreams and even their lives. Yet, seeing God’s kindly provision as they looked across the Jordan, they rejoiced. Moses commanded that once they’d taken the land God had promised them, they were to celebrate his abundant provision annually, just as the Pilgrims did.
Seek to embrace God’s kind provision in times of affliction.
Kim Robinson is a retired teacher who enjoys working with children’s ministries at her local Wesleyan church right down the street.
© 2025 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
