The One Who Gave Thanks
Was no one found to return and give praise to God?
The day in which I happen to be writing this is November 28th, 2024. This happens to be an important day in the United States. This is a day that we have set apart to give thanks. Families will come together to enjoy fellowship and express thankfulness for the things of life that they enjoy. Thanksgiving reminds of me of a certain event in the life of Jesus from the Gospel of Luke. Luke records,
On the way to Jerusalem He was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as He entered a village, He was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” when He saw them He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving Him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And He said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:11-19
Consider this man. He was condemned with the debilitating disease of leprosy. He made an outcast because of his ethnicity. He had no hope. Jesus changed that. In response to Jesus’s grace, this man could not help, but fall on his face to express thanks.
Now consider how Jesus has changed your life. Think about how much change you have underwent. Think about the trials you have made it through. Think about the people he has brought into your life. Think about the sins you have overcome. How has God changed your life? How has God blessed your life? Have there been moments in your life where His goodness and faithful poured into your life like the sun rising in the morning? Are there relationships in your life that have encouraged you and strengthened you? Have there been moments where you felt alone and forsaken, but with time you began to feel comfort and hope once again? I encourage you to think about two things. Firstly, think about the people that have impacted your life. Thank them for being so impactful in your life. Secondly, think about how God has blessed you and praise Him for His goodness and faithfulness in your life. Be the one who gave thanks.
Thank you God for blessing Your people so richly!