2 Kings 5:14-17
2 Timothy 2:8-13
Luke 17:11-19

Gratitude

The readings make clear that faith is sometimes found in unlikely places and we are reminded to notice God’s blessings at all times. We are to give thanks for what God has done. The readings show healing, mercy, and the gift of faith. They help us see that faith grows stronger when we trust God and give God praise.

In the first reading, Naaman is healed after listening to the prophet Elisha. He chooses to follow the God of Israel. In the Gospel, ten lepers are healed, but only one comes back to thank Jesus. This man, a Samaritan, shows true faith by giving thanks.

These stories remind us that faith is not just believing. It is also saying thank you to God. We are invited to look at our own lives. Do we thank God enough for His care and love? Most times, we spend much time recounting our problems and disappointments to the extent that we hardly recognize or appreciate the goodness of God in our lives. This Sunday, the church reminds us of the importance of showing gratitude to God. If we spend just a moment to reflect on our life, we will find many reasons why we must always return to God with our hearts full of gratitude.

Showing gratitude to God is very important in our Christian journey. However, we should not see it as a burden. The truth is that there is no amount of money or material thing that would be enough to pay God for God’s goodness to us. The decision to show gratitude to God must flow from our hearts and a pure conscience.

The Gospel Acclamation says it most clearly. “In all circumstances, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.”

For what in your life are you most grateful? Do you give thanks to God for this?

What can you do to grow more aware of the need of gratitude in your life?