“It happened that as [Jesus] made his way toward Jerusalem, he crossed over the border between Samaria and Galilee. As he entered a village, ten men, all lepers, met him. They kept their distance but raised their voices, calling out, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!”
Taking a good look at them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.”
They went, and while still on their way, became clean. One of them, when he realized that he was healed, turned around and came back, shouting his gratitude, glorifying God. He kneeled at Jesus’ feet, so grateful. He couldn’t thank him enough—and he was a Samaritan.
Jesus said, ‘Were not ten healed? Where are the nine? Can none be found to come back and give glory to God except this outsider?’ Then he said to him, “Get up. On your way. Your faith has healed and saved you.'”
Luke 17:11-19 (The Message)
Ten lives. Ten deformed bodies. Ten ravaged souls. Ten broken hearts. Ten.
One perfect Healer. One perfect Redeemer. One perfect tongue. One.
Ten lives. Ten healed bodies. Ten wounded hearts bound up. Ten new beginnings. Ten.
One grateful heart. One mouth of praise. One prostrate worshipper. One.
Nine missed blessings. Nine entitled hearts. Nine blind minds. Nine.
One mouth praised the Healer. Nine silent mouths walked away.
Am I the one or nine?
Oh, I truly hope I'm the "one!" I know I don't speak up to strangers nearly enough about who Jesus is to me. But I hope I've got a grateful heart to thank my Lord for the gifts He has given me!
Great post Shawn, Pastor Tom actually talked about this on Sunday. I had to admit to myself How often I actually expect God's blessing and how little I show gratitude. Wow, I guess I needed a little talk with my Father to get back in shape. Love you.