Thanksgiving Prayer in Times Like These

God, being thankful for peace and plenty
is complicated, especially this Thanksgiving.
Whose peace and whose plenty?
So many people here and around the world
face violence every day.
In some countries homes are torn to smithereens
and grieving families are scattered to the four winds.
And while some tables are full in our communities,
some have empty cupboards
or no cupboards at all.

So teach us, Jesus, to be thankful in times like these.
Thankful for the good earth, the sun and the rain.
Thankful for farmers who labour to feed us.
Thankful for food itself, so life-giving and delicious.
Thankful for all who make meals and invite others to share them.
Thankful for organizations like our local food banks
and relief organizations that help us support people with food insecurity.
Thankful for Jesus who showed us how to love our neighbour.
Thankful that you breathe kindness and generosity into us,
uniting us through your Holy Spirit.
Thankful that love is stronger than hate,
and that there are always paths to peace.
Thankful for our communities
and opportunities like today
to practice the gift of thankfulness.
Thankful for you, our Creator,
whose power makes and remakes 
all things good.
Amen.