I know Thanksgiving Day here in the United States has passed, and that we’re into the celebration of Advent, preparing for the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. But why not continue giving thanks, never letting up or taking for granted what the Lord provides? As in the humbling joy of being in His family. And our gratitude to Jesus for saving us from eternal separation from God. Thanksgiving is a holiday to hold onto.

Digging deeper into our Bibles to discover more about never-ending thankfulness, we meet the Old Testament character Nehemiah, back in downtrodden Jerusalem, on leave from his political job as cupbearer to the Persian king. Nehemiah gets to work, organizing the rebuilding of the Holy City’s walls and gates. Later, in chapter 12, he gathers a team of priests and Levites whose primary responsibilities are to praise and thank God musically.

What exactly is their calling? Read Nehemiah 12: 8–‘And the Levites… (were) in charge of the songs of thanksgiving.’ These were singers and choir leaders. This is their main job? That’s what it says. No, it’s not some spiritual hobby for brownie points. But an appointed privilege almost beyond measure. To lead God’s people in musical admiration, waxing lyrical to the Almighty.

This was nothing new. Read on–‘For long ago in the days of David and Asaph there were directors of the singers, and there were songs of praise and thanksgiving to God’ (v. 46). Even before Solomon’s Temple was built, grateful songs rang throughout Moses’ Tabernacle, its courts, and the streets of Old Jerusalem.

In Nehemiah’s day, when Jerusalem’s walls and rebuilt Temple were dedicated, thanksgiving never lets up. It was so prevalent that this happened–‘…and rejoiced, for God had made them rejoice with great joy; the women and children also rejoiced. And the joy of Jerusalem was heard far away’ (v. 43). Joyous thanks echo throughout the Holy City’s hills and valleys and even beyond.

Our thanks to God should never let up. Or be limited to one day a year. But more like Anna in the Christmas story, who stays in Herod’s Temple, waiting patiently year after year, to see the Messiah of Israel. Her patience and perseverance never let up until she finds the Messiah–‘And coming up that very hour she (Anna) began to give thanks to God…’ (Luke 2: 38).

This Christmas season heralds a time to thank God for all His good gifts to us, especially His Son, Jesus. All month long, let our praises be heard. Singing carols and all. Planning gifts to bless those we love. Giving to those desperately in need.

May joy fill our hearts and homes with continual… Well, you know what. Just never let up!

Thank you, Father, for the gift of your Son Jesus. Amen.