“Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” – Luke 17:18
A surgeon successfully operated on several patients with the same condition. In the following weeks, most focused on their recovery, relieved but absorbed in their own lives. Only one patient returned to the clinic not for a check-up, but to find the surgeon. Looking the doctor in the eye, he said, “I needed you to know what your skill has given back to my family.”
In the healing of the ten lepers, Jesus reveals a profound truth: receiving God’s gift is one thing, but being made truly whole requires the response of gratitude. All ten were cleansed of their physical disease, but only the one who returned to give thanks was told, “Your faith has made you well.” His thanksgiving completed the healing, restoring him not just to health, but to relationship with God. This mirrors the warning in Wisdom to those in power who receive God’s blessings but forget their source. Gratitude is the humility that recognizes every good gift comes from above, transforming entitlement into joyful dependence. It is the will of God for us in Christ Jesus. Do not be among the nine who receive grace as their due. Let your life be a continuous act of thanksgiving, for it is in returning to give glory that our faith makes us completely whole.
A Journey of Reflection and Action
- Journal Prompt: Write about a recent blessing you may have taken for granted. How can you express gratitude to God for it today?
- Scripture Meditation: Reflect on Luke 17:11–19 and 1 Thessalonians 5:16–18. Ask the Spirit to deepen your awareness of God’s goodness.
- Sharing: Tell someone what God has done in your life recently and how thankful you are.
- Group Discussion: Discuss why gratitude is essential for spiritual maturity and how it strengthens faith.
- Practical Step: Each day this week, thank God intentionally for one specific thing you often overlook.
Join Us in Prayer
Gracious Father, thank You for every gift—seen and unseen. Forgive me for the times I’ve received without returning to give You praise. Teach me to live with a thankful heart that glorifies You in all things. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
Next Step on Your Journey
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Scripture Footnote & Further Reading
Adapted from the Catholic Daily Reading for Wednesday, November 12, 2025.
Further Reading:
- First Reading: Wisdom 6:1–11
- Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 82:3–4, 6–7
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