Sometimes I am just very thankful for the simple joys of life. And they came out as a song!
grace
thanksgiving
adrian j pratt
simple joys
Story behind the song
I've heard other people respond when they are asked how they are doing say, "Better than I deserve!" When it boils down to it I am thankful for much the same stuff as everybody else. Family, friends, good health, good music and faith. I totally understand that when it comes to beliefs we are not all on the same page, but we all have faith in something, even if we can't put it into words.
I recently had the opportunity to take part in an interfaith Thanksgiving Service held at the Old Whalers Presbyterian Church, in Sag Harbor, NY. It was wonderful to share in giving thanks with representatives of Buddhist, Islamic, Jewish and various Christian traditions.
At the start of the service we were each asked to share something from within our own faith traditions. So I put on my 'Morrison' tartan tie (my family clan and expressing connections with the Scottish Presbyterian Church) and read out the words of 'Simple Joys' as a poem.
It was encouraging to afterwards have a few folk comment that they had found it meaningful. Quite a boost when your lyrics can communicate something without their accompanying music. But I do prefer the musical version!
The original was written quite early after I began my ministry with my first congregations in Wales. I recall sharing it a few occasions over the years. It really has been a lifelong privilege to be involved in the life and ministry of different churches and their congregants. I often feel extremely blessed... beyond what I deserve. Such is the nature of grace.
But... enough with the sermonising. Just hope somebody out there enjoys the music and I hope it may be a prompt for some personal thanksgiving.
Lyrics
Simple Joys
Adrian Pratt 1985
For my home for my family
For all the special things You have given to me
The laughter of children
The warmth of sunshine
Everything you have done for this life of mine
Lord I want to thank You for the simple joys
The every day memories which no one can destroy
The life that You have given freely to me
Your light and Your peace which have set me so free
Thank You Lord for simple joys
Thank You Lord for simple joys
I'm nobody special
Yet You treat me like a King
Give me the song
And the ability to sing
Give to me my strength,
Give to my my health
Opened up my life to the treasures of Your wealth
Lord I want to thank You for the simple joys
The every day memories which no one can destroy
The life that You have given freely to me
Your light and Your peace which have set me so free
Thank You Lord for simple joys
Thank You Lord for simple joys
Forgive me Lord when I feel to see
All the blessings
You have showered down on me
Help me Lord to live my life for You
And walk in Your will whatever I do
Lord I want to thank You for the simple joys
The every day memories which no one can destroy
The life that You have given freely to me
Your light and Your peace which have set me so free
Thank You Lord for simple joys
Thank You Lord for simple joys