In the gospel passage of Luke 17:11-19 Jesus asked a very poignant and revealing question: “Where are the nine?” Nine of the ten lepers had faith in Jesus as a miracle worker, were cleansed of their leprosy, and left without giving thanks and praise to Jesus. These men were cleansed physically, but still spiritually sick. Only the Samaritan who returned was made well spiritually through his faith in Jesus. Let us pause to examine ourselves to see if we are one of the nine or the one who returned to Jesus.
- Do you only come to Jesus when you have a problem?
- When you find relief for your problem, do you praise Jesus or forget Him?
- Is Jesus a genie in a bottle that you come to when you need something from Him?
- Is Jesus, in your opinion and practice, nothing more than a highly respected miracle worker?
- Is He a person that you try to stay on good terms with because you may need His help one day?
- Is He nothing more than an insurance policy that you hope you never need?
If so, be careful because it appears that you are like the nine who called out for mercy in their time of physical need while ignoring Him when it comes time to find spiritual healing. We should consider the actions of the Samaritan and in all things “give praise to God.” True thanks-givers are interested in the Giver, not just His gifts. Notice Jesus didn’t demand this praise, but this leper offers it freely. Jesus loves you to offer praise freely. Ten men prayed, but only one praised his way to spiritual healing which is most important for our being. Be a true thanks-giver. Shalom!
BIBLE PASSAGES FOR DAILY REFLECTION
To be equipped for God’s work, we must study His word (Cf. 2 Timothy 3:16-17), reflect on it daily and live. Ensure you share the fruits of your meditation with at least two people.
Sunday: Philemon 1:1-25
Monday: Hebrews 1:1-14
Tuesday: Hebrews 2:1-18
Wednesday: Hebrews 3:1-19
Thursday: Hebrews 4:1-16
Friday: Hebrews 5:1-14
Saturday: Hebrews 6:1-20
Psalm of the Week: Psalm 136
Prayer:
May we genuinely thank you Lord for your marvellous love. Save us from all forms of ingratitude towards You. Amen!
