The story of the ten lepers in Luke 17:11-19 is a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude. Ten men, afflicted with the devastating disease of leprosy, cried out to Jesus for mercy.
With his characteristic compassion, Jesus told them to go and show themselves to the priests, the prescribed process for being declared clean. And as they went, they received healing. Imagine their joy, their relief, the restoration of their lives.
But the story doesn’t end there. Of the ten, only one, a Samaritan (often an outcast in Jewish society), returned to Jesus. He fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, glorifying God with a loud voice, and thanking him profusely. Jesus’ response is striking: “Were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine? Were there not any found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?”
This passage isn’t just about physical healing; it’s about spiritual healing and the attitude of our hearts. All ten men received the same miraculous gift, but only one recognized the true source of his healing and felt compelled to express his gratitude. The other nine, while physically healed, missed a deeper blessing – the blessing of a grateful heart.
It’s easy to get caught up in our own needs and desires, to cry out to God in times of trouble, and then forget to acknowledge His hand in our lives once the crisis has passed. We may receive blessings, big and small, and yet fail to offer a simple “thank you.”
Are we like the nine, quick to receive but slow to give thanks? Or are we like the one, recognizing God’s grace and returning to offer our heartfelt gratitude?
Let’s strive to cultivate a spirit of thankfulness, not just for the big miracles but also for the everyday blessings. Let’s remember that gratitude is more than just good manners; it’s a recognition of God’s love and a key to experiencing the fullness of His grace.
#gratitude
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