Thoughts on Thankfulness...

As I thanked God for each one by name; family members, co-workers, friends who serve on the mission field here and overseas, my underlying question was... "What good is this really? Can saying 'thank you' change or empower or offer blessing?" I didn't 'feel' anything at the sound of my own voice offering up prayers of thankfulness. That is when I clearly heard the Lord Himself speak to my mind and heart. He said, "A thankful heart prepares the way of the Lord." Such a simple answer I thought, but how profound! How many times have I heard that scripture about having a thankful heart spoken or songs sung about it? This time was different. I saw in my mind specific people who I love and care about going and coming; busy about their daily lives and ministries; working, playing, loving and praying. Then I saw me; insignificant in my rather plain life, yet as I prayed with a thankful heart for these people who God has brought into my life; thanking Him for their children and the work He has called them to... the heavens opened up with a brilliant 'way' or road as I saw it. The road stretched from heaven down to earth where each person I had mentioned lived and worked. The Lord Himself walked on this road of thankfulness and by His hand and because of my obedience, lives were changed, healing came, and sadness and despair were lifted. A thankful heart in me (and in you) prepares the way of the Lord for them; all of them on whose behalf we enter boldly into the throne room of grace. I see thankfulness with more clarity today.