I thank God for my Scottish grandmother who urged me to preach my first sermon on the story of the ten lepers found in Luke 17:11-19. Ten lepers were healed but only one returned to say, "Thank you."

Thanks may be the most valuable word in any language. It is said when Mark Twain was at the peak of his career, his writing was valued at $5 per word. Some college prankster wrote Twain a letter saying, "Dear Mr. Twain: enclosed is $5. Please send me your best word." Shortly a reply came. It simple said, "Thanks!"

Thanks is an important word of affirmation and appreciation. Thank you are healing and kind words. Most of us know how good it feels to receive gratitude. This week take a few moments and write two or three short notes of gratitude to a few unthanked contributors to your spiritual pilgrimage...to those who have left footprints on your heart.

Let us Pray: O God of all precious things, who hears our pain even when tears block our words, create in us a heart of laughter and hope and gratitude. In Jesus name. Amen.