I can’t remember if I’ve mentioned it or not but I’m a member of the choir at my church. Today, we sang a song by Ray Boltz called “Thank You for Giving to the Lord.” It’s a beautiful song. When ever it’s sung as a solo I always cry. I’m getting teary eyed right now just thinking about it. As we sung, I struggled to not focus on the words because I will cry.

I think what affects me the most is that I grew up in church. So, as I listen to the words, I think about all the sunday school teachers who have taught me. I think about my Granddad who read his bible everyday and still thought his wife was beautiful at 55. He is with the Lord now. I think about my Pawpaw who was a preacher and always had a knee for his grandchildren to sit on no mater how big they were. He’s with God, too.

When the song says, “And you stood before the Lord and he said, ‘My child look around you for great is your reward,'” I can’t hold my tears back. I want Jesus to say that to me, too. I want to the job that God want’s be to do so that when I do stand before the Lord I will hear those words.

Here is a link to YouTube so you can listen: http://youtu.be/UFrdJ2V3r7Y

Here are the words:

Thank You For Giving To The Lord

 I dreamed I went to Heaven. You were there with me. We walked upon the streets of gold beside the crystal sea. We heard these angels singing then someone called your name .You turned and saw this young man and he was smiling as he came. He said “Friend, you may not know me now” and then he said “But wait You used to teach my Sunday school when I was only eight. And every week you would say a prayer before the class would start. And one day when you said that prayer I asked Jesus in my heart”

Chorus:

Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am a life that was changed. Thank you for giving to the Lord. I am so glad you gave.

Then another man stood before you. He said “Remember the time; A missionary came to your church his pictures made you cry. You didn’t have much money But you gave it anyway. Jesus took that gift you gave and that’s why I’m here today”

Repeat Chorus

One by one they came. Far as your eyes could see. Each life somehow touched by your generosity. Little things that you had done. Sacrifices you made. Unnoticed on this earth. In Heaven now proclaimed.
And I know up in Heaven You’re not supposed to cry. But I am almost sure there were tears in your eyes. As Jesus took your hand and you stood before the Lord. He said “My child look around you Great is your reward.”

Repeat Chorus

        I am so glad you gave.

One of the many things I’m thankful for is my grandparents and parents. They all taught me how important it is to worship with a group of believers. I don’t think I would be the person I am today if they hadn’t.

What are you thankful for during this holiday of thanksgiving?