Volume 13: Rest in Gratitude

 

Luke 17:11-19 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."

There is no better time to practice our gratitude than the week of Thanksgiving!! As we see over and over in Scripture, gratitude proceeded every miracle. Before Jesus acted, he was quick to give thanks. May we follow his example!

And even more, may we follow the example of the one leper that returned to give thanks to Jesus for healing him. Every time I read this passage, I am convicted of how often I am like the other nine lepers... who receives healing, provision and gifts from Jesus, yet I just keep going and do not return to give thanks. Thank goodness for His never ending grace and forgiveness amirite!! 

One of my greatest flaws is that I have always been a little too sentimental about things. In a moment when I am supposed to be jumping with joy that a break has arrived, I typically actually almost get sad... Well, not sad, but reflective. Because as a break comes, I get overwhelmed with gratitude as I look back at everything that has led up to the break. Whether back in high school, college, teaching, or now working for camp, breaks are the benchmark moment when I slow down enough to reflect on what the Lord has done. 

The last three months have been full of a lot of growth, challenges, and joys. Meeting new people, spending time with family, visiting new places, reading books, watching the dawgs, laughing with friends, learning new skills in my job, and so much more. 

So, Jesus, today, I am turning back, praising you and giving you thanks. Thank you for accepting my gratitude, even though it could never be enough for all that you do. 

May we be quick to give thanks!!! When we are focused on our gratitudes, it is easy to be at rest. Because whew, if we actually acknowledged every gift we are given each day, we would never be stressed or worried about a thing!!