As for me, I will always have hope;
    I will praise you more and more.

Psalm 71:14 (NIV)

Screen Shot 2013-11-24 at 3.19.53 PM

I love our church’s Thanksgiving service. We have a tradition of singing the praise song, 10,000 Reasons. It always stirs me as I reflect over the events of this past year and realize that God has provided for me at every turn. He has given me hope when I was at a low ebb and blessings when I least expected them. In turn, I praise Him with my whole heart—singing when the evening comes.

Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name

The sun comes up, it’s a new day dawning
It’s time to sing Your song again
Whatever may pass, and whatever lies before me
Let me be singing when the evening comes

Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name

You’re rich in love, and You’re slow to anger
Your name is great, and Your heart is kind
For all Your goodness I will keep on singing
Ten thousand reasons for my heart to find

Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name

And on that day when my strength is failing
The end draws near and my time has come
Still my soul will sing Your praise unending
Ten thousand years and then forevermore

Bless the Lord, O my soul
O my soul
Worship His holy name
Sing like never before
O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name

Jesus, I’ll worship Your holy name
Lord, I’ll worship Your holy name

 A highlight for this service is watching and listening as our pastors walk through the aisles of the  congregation with a roving mic. Old and young pop up with special thoughts of praise and thanksgiving. There is never any hurry or pressure, only encouragement, some clapping, and a few tears. Because I sit in the choir, I get a bird’s eye view of it all and it brings joy to my heart…Couples married for 60 years, a son miraculously healed, financial disaster beginning to turn around, a little guy thankful for cookies. 

Nothing is too big or small to bring to our Heavenly Father. He delights in hearing the praise of His people.

Thanksgiving is only a few days away. Maybe your tradition is to take turns sharing a blessing around your dinner table. Some write notes on a special tablecloth.

Whatever, else is going on, steal away from all the busyness and preparations to spend a few minutes alone and thank God for His blessings to you and those you love.

Sing like never before
O my soul
I’ll worship Your holy name
Jesus, I’ll worship Your holy name
I’ll worship Your holy name