I think ‘Thanksgiving’ is a great name for this day. It reminds us of our appropriate response to what the day is about. It works well, and does not need modification.
But I have an alternate name for this day to share with you. It is no replacement, it simply speaks to the cause of the day. This alternate is ‘Dependence’ Day. In America, where Thanksgiving Day is chiefly celebrated, we also have ‘Independence’ Day. That day reminds us that we can, by much blood and effort, be independent from tyrannical human governments.
Though ‘Thanksgiving’ describes exactly what we should do on this Thursday in November, this alternate moniker points out very clearly why we should do it. We may be independent from some forms of human evil, but we are still reliant upon Almighty God for our very existence. We cannot truly, and must not attempt to, live independent from Him.
As you enjoy the great blessings usually shared on this special day, give not only great thanks but great recognition to the One Whom we are all dependent upon. He alone can give us true freedom, both physical and spiritual.
It is the duty of all Nations to acknowledge the providence of Almighty God, to obey his will, to be grateful for his benefits, and humbly to implore his protection and favor.
From the Thanksgiving Day proclamation George Washington signed in 1789