A few years ago I re-worked the words to the song “Thank you” by Ray Boltz, to be a note of appreciation to the volunteers in my congregation. It might be time to pull it out and share it again:
Thank You
words by Michelle Collins
Based on the song “Thank you” by Ray Boltz
I dreamed I went to Advent
And there I saw the love
The volunteers share with the kids
In praise of God above.
I saw the teachers teaching
The stories of our faith
And playing on the playground
While keeping all kids safe.
In the youth room youth were hangin’
As they explored their life
The care of the adults involved
Helped teenagers walk through strife.
Everywhere I looked
Adults were plugging in
To help the faith of kids and youth
I’m not sure where to begin
In saying “thank you” for giving to the Lord
So many lives being changed
Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am so glad you gave.
In my dream I kept on walking
And saw adults prepare
For weekly Bible study—
Anticipation in the air.
Together they explored the stuff
Of faith and life and love
The leader of their learning time
Sharing gifts from God above.
Throughout the week homes became
The place for small group time
Around a table stories shared
Perhaps a glass of wine
The leaders of these groups were ready
To share their lives with those
Who grew under their care
All I can say to that, I suppose
Is ‘thank you’ for giving to the Lord
So many lives being changed.
Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am so glad you gave.
One by one they came
Far as my eyes could see
The lives extending out to others
Sharing generosity
The love of Jesus showing up
As each relationship formed
Some organized, some not
But each above the norm
And I know that when in front
You’re not supposed to cry
But as I think of all I see
There are tears in my eyes
And so I stand and raise my glass
To all who give to God
By helping form the faith of others
And, although it might seem odd,
I say “thank you” for giving to the Lord
So many lives being changed
Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am so glad you gave.