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. (Luke 17:15–16, ESV)
This week is Thanksgiving. The traditional reading for Thanksgiving day is from Luke 17. It tells the story of ten lepers who were healed of their disease by Jesus. They come to Jesus and ask to be healed. Jesus tells them to go show themselves to the priests.
While they are on their way, they realize they have been healed. One of the ten returns to give thanks to Jesus. But the other nine go on their way without saying anything.
The text makes note that the one who returned was a Samaritan. The purpose of pointing this out is that the Samaritan would have seemed to have been the least likely to return.
There are times when you might feel unappreciated. Jesus gave this incredible gift of healing to these men, but only one returns. I highly doubt that they were ungrateful. But they failed to express their gratitude.
So the next time that someone offers their appreciation, realize that there are probably more people who are appreciative. But they have failed to express it. For every ten people who are grateful, only one will typically express it.
You are appreciated! More than you realize.
Brad Rutledge says
I am an elder at a small church in North Carolina and I post our pastors sermon on the website each week and try to find a photo to highlight the sermon. Would it be possible to get permission for one time use of the photo associated with your message on Nov 16, 2017 on Luke 17:15-16.
Phil Ressler says
You can use it.