I was in Ocean City last weekend to cover the Baltimore Youth Catholic Conference, which attracted about 450 adults and youths from across the Archdiocese of Baltimore.
Driving down Coastal Highway in Ocean City, the weekend before Thanksgiving, I was surprised to see hotels and condominiums already decorated for Christmas. “Happy Holidays” was spelled out across balconies and red and green Christmas lights adorned almost every building I passed.
I have even seen photos of Christmas trees for sale posted on Facebook. Will these trees still have any needles on Dec. 25?
The holiday season seems to start earlier every year. Some retailers are opening their doors for Black Friday as early as 8 or 9 p.m. on Thanksgiving, only hours after gluttonous holiday meals have been consumed. How can we enjoy the company of our family and friends when we’re distracted thinking about false idols?
Shoppers should reconsider consuming an extraordinary amount of food before rushing out the door to purchase the latest and greatest material goods. This detracts from the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Can’t it wait?
Our focus this Thursday – and every day – should be on thanking God for the abundant blessings in our lives.
What are you thankful for this Thanksgiving?
Photo credit: Tom McCarthy | CR Staff
