Animated film: The man who said thank you
God wants us to be thankful, because then we become happy ourselves, we do good for those who help us, and we also create joy where we are.
The children in the animated film see Jesus talking to some people who are very sick. When they have finished talking, they move on, but suddenly they discover that Jesus has healed them! Everyone cheers with relief and happily continues on their way. But then one of them stops and goes back to thank Jesus. Everyone was happy that they had gotten better, but only one remembered to say thank you, and he was the happiest of all! Jesus was also happy, because the man realized that it was God who had made him well. He glorified God and was then able to help other people. (From Luke 17:11-19)
Do you have people around you who help you?
Then it’s important to remember to say thank you, to show that you’re happy that they’re doing something good for you. You can also think about why you feel happy and grateful when others do good for you, and how you can do the same for others.
Most of all, we can thank God and Jesus for loving us and looking after us and teaching us to be good and kind. We can show our gratitude both with words and by doing what we know is right.
Questions for discussion
Why do we say thank you?
Why was Jesus happy that the man thanked him?
Can you think of some things you can say thank you for?
Songs that fit the theme
AB 244: Who is always happy?
AB 212: Joy, joy, my heart is full of joy!
Bible verses that fit the theme
In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
1 Thessalonians 5:18
… giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ,
Ephesians 5:20
And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.
Colossians 3:15
