An Attitude of Gratitude

Luke 17: 17 “…were there not ten cleansed? But where are the nine?”

Learning he had leprosy, was like a huge physical blow. It was really a death sentence, because the disease had no cure. A leper would suffer and suffer, his body rotting away as the disease got worse. Leprosy was considered contagious so people would not want to come near him. He would have to live far away from family and friends, outside of town, only associating with other lepers.

In those days everyone believed that leprosy was a punishment from God. He couldn’t think of anything he had done to deserve such terrible punishment, but it seemed hopeless trying to pray. He experienced pain, loneliness, anger, frustration, hopelessness. The other nine lepers were not much encouragement. He was a Samaritan; they were Jews. Although all of them were in the same situation (on death row) they felt themselves better than he and treated him like an outcast.

Then came a ray of hope. He heard that Jesus had cured Simon, a rich Pharisee who had leprosy. Could Jesus cure him too? He doubted it. It was almost impossible to get near to Jesus. The crowds that always followed Him would probably stone any leper who tried to get close. In addition, Jesus, Who was a Jew wouldn’t cure him who was a Samaritan. But Jesus did! He heard them cry out as they approached. The crowd stayed far from them, but Jesus showed compassion. He did not discriminate, but treated all of them in the same way.

When Jesus healed the lepers, He gave them back their homes, families, places in society, their lives. The priest pronounced them cured and as they left, the other nine rushed out to celebrate their new life; to find family and friends. But though he had to travel a long way home, there was one thing the Samaritan had to do first. Finding Jesus, he knelt down in front of Him and thanked Him. All the lepers had received the same blessing, but the Samaritan, having an attitude of gratitude, came back to say thanks.

Ingratitude is listed as one of the sins of the last days. Do you have an attitude of gratitude for all that God has done for you? Have you taken time out today to thank God for His blessings in your life? This is a good moment to say thanks to the Giver of all good gifts.

Dear Lord, so often I rush away to enjoy my blessings without pausing to say thanks. Please forgive me and accept my gratitude today for all your goodness to me, in Jesus’ name, amen.