I dreamed I went to heaven
And you were there with me
We walked upon the streets of gold
Beside the crystal sea
We heard the angels singing
Then someone called your name
You turned and saw this young man
And he was smiling as he came
And he said friend you may not know me now
And then he said but wait
You used to teach my Sunday School
When I was only eight
And every week you would say a prayer
Before the class would start
And one day when you said that prayer
I asked Jesus in my heart
Chorus
Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am a life that was changed
Thank you for giving to the Lord
I am so glad you gave
Then another man stood before you
And said remember the time
A missionary came to your church
And his pictures made you cry
You didn't have much money
But you gave it anyway
Jesus took the gift you gave
And that's why I'm here today
Chorus (repeat)
One by one they came
Far as the eyes could see
Each life somehow touched
By your generosity
Little things that you had done
Sacrifices made
Unnoticed on the earth
In heaven now proclaimed
And I know that up in heaven
You're not supposed to cry
But I am almost sure
There were tears in your eyes
As Jesus took your hand
And you stood before the Lord
He said, my child look around you
For great is your reward
Chorus (repeat)
I am so glad you gave
Thank You
Thank You Song Meaning, Biblical Reference and Inspiration
Ray Boltz's song "Thank You," while a staple in Christian music for decades, saw a presentation on December 7, 2012, reminding a new generation of its powerful and enduring message. At its core, the song isn't just a simple expression of gratitude; it's a profound reflection on the often-unseen spiritual mentors and encouragers God strategically places in our lives. The story behind the song, which resonates with so many who have walked a path of faith, is the realization that our spiritual journey is rarely, if ever, traveled alone. It speaks to the individuals who quietly lived out their faith, offered words of encouragement, prayed when we didn't know how, and demonstrated Christ's love in ways that kept us grounded or guided us back when we strayed. It’s about acknowledging the immense debt we owe to these fellow travelers whose influence, sometimes seemingly small at the time, proved absolutely vital.
The analysis of "Thank You" reveals a beautiful tapestry woven with biblical principles. The song gives voice to the truth found in 1 Corinthians 12, which describes the body of Christ where each part is essential and interdependent. Just as Paul explains that the eye cannot say to the hand, "I have no need of you," this song reminds us that no believer grows or perseveres in isolation. We depend on one another. It also echoes the instruction in Hebrews 10:24-25, urging us to "consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together... but encouraging one another." The people Ray Boltz sings about are those who embodied this encouragement, often without seeking recognition. Furthermore, the song touches upon the principle of investment in others, a theme seen throughout Scripture, from Jesus discipling his followers to Paul mentoring Timothy. Philippians 2:4 encourages us to look out not only for our own interests but also for the interests of others, a selfless act of love that forms the foundation of the relationships celebrated in the song. Galatians 6:2 calls us to "carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ," a picture of the support structure this song honors.
What makes "Thank You" particularly moving is its focus on the eternal perspective. It looks beyond earthly accolades to the hope of recognizing these faithful servants in heaven, standing before the Lord. This resonates deeply with Matthew 25:34-40, where Jesus describes welcoming the righteous into the kingdom, saying, "whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." The song suggests that the quiet acts of faithfulness and encouragement are seen and valued by God, and that the reward will be shared in His presence. The prospect of spending eternity alongside those who influenced our faith, and knowing that our presence there is, in part, a result of their faithfulness, is an incredibly powerful and inspiring thought. It transforms our understanding of Christian community from a temporary gathering to an eternal fellowship, bound together by Christ and the impact we've had on one another's journey towards Him. The song prompts listeners to pause and consider the specific faces God has used in their own lives and to feel a profound sense of gratitude, not only to those individuals but ultimately to God, the author of every good gift and the orchestrator of these divine connections. It stands as a timeless anthem acknowledging the invaluable treasure found in the fellowship of believers and the lasting impact of selfless love within the body of Christ.