At Faith Lutheran Church in the Sunday Morning class, Faith and the Arts, we consider famous works that can inspire our faith. They include art, music, or writings, their creators, and the message they have left behind for us to enjoy or to contemplate or to share. Frequently, the professor will comment that while the artist was alive, his/her work was unappreciated or unnoticed. It was only after their death that the results of their work came to be recognized or even honored.

In the past two weeks I have attended two funerals. One was a friend, the other a cousin. Both were men of faith. For each, the church was filled with family, friends, and colleagues. These two men were each remembered for their gifts and the imprint they made upon their community and beyond. At the memorial services, remembering these gifted men, I wondered if they knew while they lived the impact their life was having upon others. Did those who came to honor their lost loved one, friend, co-worker remember to stand by them when they struggled, or doubted, or became discouraged? Did they commend them for the good they were doing while they lived? Did they remember to say “thank you” to them when blessed by them?

I recall the biblical story of Luke 17—the healing of the 10 lepers. Ten were healed but only one said, “Thanks!” We often use this story as a reminder to give God thanks for his many, many, continuous gifts. However, it might serve us well to remember to give thanks to the many, many people around us who are making a difference in our lives or that of our community or church. Give it a try! Say “THANKS!”

Prayer: Thank you God for everything you do for us! Give us eyes to see the good works of those around us so that we can say “thanks” to them as well. Amen