Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, 

for his steadfast love endures forever. 

Psalm 136 may have been read or sung in the temple as the Passover lambs were being slain. The priest would read or sing the first part of each [verse] then the congregation would sing or read the last phrase which is the same throughout the Psalm.

The key word in the response is the Hebrew word for ‘mercy’ or ‘steadfast love’. We might pronounce is ‘hesed’, with more of a ‘ch’ sound at the beginning. Defined in part as “loyal love” it’s God’s gift of love towards us, as best seen in words like ‘mercy’. A brief survey of English translations shows even a fuller meaning of the term, and this in turn can help us see the root of our thankful hearts. It’s Who God is and what He’s done for us.

ESV: for his steadfast love endures forever

NKJV: For His mercy endures forever

NASB: For His lovingkindness is everlasting

NIV: His love endures forever

NLT: His faithful love endures forever

There is so much to give thanks for on this Thanksgiving Day 2013. At the center of it all is the finished work of Jesus on the cross, taking my place, paying for all of my sin. And now as His very own, I will proclaim His goodness, His love and mercy, His ‘hesed’ for all to hear.

God bless each of you this Thanksgiving!

Be thankful in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you who belong to Christ Jesus. 1 Thes 5:18 NLT

 I thank my God in all my remembrance of you Phil 1:3