1 What joy it is to praise our God
with instruments and voice,
and name the countless reasons that
God gives us to rejoice,
yet some find other ways to show
a grateful, loving heart.
Thanksgiving is their way of life,
and praise is just the start.

2 A statesman gladly hammers out
his praise in building homes;
a mission mother cares for those
who thought they’d die alone.
A preacher leads a freedom march,
a lawyer aids a child;
a bishop helps men face the truth
and all are reconciled.

3 God, in the best and worst of times,
you bless us many ways.
Give us a sense of gratitude
that goes beyond mere praise.
Like faithful leaders that we know,
may we each find a role
where we can share love’s healing balm
and make the wounded whole.