Thousands of people flocked to the National Mall in Washington, DC on May 17 for a massive faith event organized by President Donald Trump’s administration. Dubbed “Rededicate 250: National Jubilee of Prayer, Praise, and Thanksgiving,” the event was tied to the nation’s 250th birthday.

Commencing in 2004, many churches across Australia began celebrating the National Day of Thanksgiving, on the last Saturday in May. FamilyVoice over the years has encouraged the “attitude of gratitude” especially commending the National Day of Thanksgiving.

The first commemoration (2004) was launched by Governor-General Michael Jeffery, with the aim of restoring Christian values in society. At the launch, Prime Minister John Howard said the day “encourages Australians to recognise the values and people that sustain the nation.” Each commemoration follows soon after the 9th May anniversary of the opening of Australia’s first federal Parliament in 1901.

As one of the most peaceful, prosperous nations and one of the longest continuously democratic countries, we have much reason for thanksgiving! Certainly national confession and repentance is greatly needed – but thanksgiving also.

Churches need to connect more closely with the community – particularly all manner of civic authorities whom sadly we have largely abandoned and remind them of our rich Christian heritage. And as churches lead the culture in the expression of gratitude, we perhaps help to “prepare the ground” for crucially-needed confession and repentance.

It’s important to echo words that describe Australia’s rich Christian heritage as we connect to churches and schools.

Australians such as Alfred Deakin, he was a key architect of Australian federation and a three-time Prime Minister who shaped the nation’s early policies and institutions. Deakin composed the following prayer in 1898 as momentum built towards Federation:

“Father of Nations, receive our psalm of thanksgiving. Enable us to pursue the cause of unity in spite of the obstacles which at present appear to beset our path …. God preserve this people and grant its leaders unselfish fidelity and courage to face all trials for the sake of brotherhood. Thy blessing has rested upon us here yesterday and we pray that it may be the means of creating and fostering throughout all Australia a Christlike citizenship”.

What has happened to church parades, commissioning services, connections to Cubs, Scouts, Guides, St John’s Ambulance, and the military etc?

When I was a child in the mid 1900’s most children were sent to Sunday School even if their parents did not go to church. They understood that this is where their children would learn about right and wrong and about God and justice. Churches need to tell people what was lost when this practice ceased. Meaning and purpose in life was lost. Fear of God which is the beginning of wisdom was lost. No wonder children suicide rates have increased.

What has happened to the simple action of offering “requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving for kings and all those in authority” as a priority Paul urged: “First of all, then” (1 Timothy 2:1)?

“First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.” 1 Timothy 2:1-4

We are fast approaching the time of Jesus return to Earth to restore righteousness and not only rescue the nation God established for His purposes but to fulfil the promises He made to Abraham, Isaac and Jacob for Israel to be the lead nation of the world with their Messiah as king of the world – Jesus Millennial Kingdom. Go to http://www.millennialkingdom.net for more on what is next on God’s agenda for planet earth. Hence, with an urgency inspired by His soon coming, we need to get on with the job of bringing the Good News to our family, friends and neighbours.