"We Thank Thee" (Isaiah 26:3)

My mother was a special education teacher and was comfortable speaking before large groups in her classrooms. But I witnessed a completely different side of her when she prayed. When she hosted a family dinner in her home, she would gather everyone together to say grace before we ate. In a very formal and measured voice, she would begin. “Almighty God. We thank thee for this food we are about to receive. Thou has taken care of this family. Thank you for thy bountiful blessings. Amen!”

I loved her prayers. They were brief, honest, and heartfelt. But what always stood out was her use of old english, particularly pronouns such as thee, thou, and thy. There was an effusive formality and deep respect for the God whom she loved. I witnessed it in her life and it was manifest in the way she addressed God.

Of course, no one speaks with this old english in everyday speech. But when it is used, it certainly commands attention. It evokes memories of the King James Bible and Shakespeare. There is a grandeur and rhythmic quality that is sometimes lost with modern english translations.

Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.
Isaiah 26:3 (KJV)

This verse from the Prophet Isaiah encapsulates my mother’s life. My mother loved God. I thank my mother for her deep enduring faith in God. Her noble use of language honored the God we love and serve.

Thank you Mom! I thank thee!

Love and trust the Lord; seek His will in your life.