Thanksgiving is often the time we slow down, reflect, and verbalize God’s goodness in our lives. I think that encourages Jesus but I think he expects more than words from us.
“As Jesus 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 other 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 17:12-17
“We want to be well!” they screamed at Jesus. And the great teacher responds, “Go and show yourselves to the priest.” The local priest had duties of leading worship and serving as a health official. If a person was miraculously healed of leprosy, it was up to the priest to inspect the body and to announce the person healed. It then would be fine for the leper to see his wife, family, and to look for work again.
So off these 10 went in search of priests. And somewhere on their way — a hand reappeared, skin cleared, a leg strengthened– they were healed! I can imagine one looked at the other, another looked at the rest, and the screaming started. They raced off in the distance, not believing that their nightmare was finally over.
One leper caught himself in the midst of the celebration, and returned to Jesus. He reversed his steps, put his family on hold, and came back to the cause of his celebration. His response to gratefulness led him to action. Jesus asked “Where are the other nine?” and, in asking that question, He must have had an expectation of the men. Jesus never commanded that any of them express thankfulness but nevertheless, that is what Jesus expected. Jesus wants more than lip service from us– He expects action in our thankfulness.
I think in order for this miracle to happen, these lepers had to start walking in faith before their circumstances had changed. I cannot wait until my problems are over to start walking in faith. I can’t say, “Lord, as soon as I have more money, I will tithe.” Or “Lord, if you’ll just solve this legal issue, I’ll start going to church.” I’m realizing that I can’t put conditions on God but rather God places a demand for faith on me before anything can change.
- Love me despite the disease.
- Obey me despite the lack of resources.
- Trust me despite losing your largest client.
- Praise me in the darkest of nights and in the worst of circumstances.
This is the nature of God– He gives me the opportunity to be thankful when nothing about my circumstances gives me that motivation. And this is the very definition of faith.
Reflection |
How will you show thankfulness in your business & life despite the circumstances?
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