We have all been taught since childhood to say “thank you” to people when they do something nice for us.  But what is the appropriate expression we should return when someone thanks us?  The normal response of today is “You’re welcome.”  Some might say, “Don’t mention it.”

A friend of mine hates to hear the response “Yep!”  He feels it is impolite.  People should be more expressive when they aknowledge thankfulness.  Truthfully, I’ve never thought much about it until he brought this to my attention.

The whole thing has made me wonder, why we say the things we do in thanksgiving?  I have discovered that “You’re welcome” is an extension of the initial act of kindness, encouraging the thankful person to enjoy the situation provided.  “Don’t mention it”, is a reply of humility where the person performing the act of kindness does not want to be thanked for it.  In light of these definitions, maybe saying “Yep” is a little too indifferent; a cliché, leaving one feel like something more should be said.

As November is traditionally our thanksgiving month, I wonder, how does God responds to our expressions of thanks?  I am sure it is not with an indifferent, divine “yep”.  He is more expressive than that.  He desires everyone to enjoy the full benefits of His grace and love.  I am sure God responds with “You’re welcome”, encouraging us to experience all of His provisions.  To each act He lavishes more grace.  With each expression of thanksgiving, we are encouraged to enjoy more love.

As you give God thanks this month, enjoy his joyfull “You’re welcome!”

Pastor Mark