The story of the healing of the ten lepers, narrated in Luke 17:11-19, highlights the importance of gratitude in the Christian life. At the time the Bible was written, leprosy was an incurable and highly contagious disease, and those who contracted it were considered unclean and excluded from society. In that story, ten lepers approached Jesus, asking him for mercy and healing. Jesus granted their request and healed them, telling them to go and show themselves to the priests.
The biblical text says that all ten lepers were healed, but only one of them returned to thank Jesus. He was a Samaritan, a foreigner, whom Jesus singled out as having genuine faith. Jesus asked where the other nine were, and questioned their absence. “Were not all ten healed? Where are the other nine? Was no one found who returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” (Luke 17:17-18).
This biblical passage shows us that although God answers our prayers and blesses us with healing and other blessings, we often forget to be grateful and express our gratitude to Him. Gratitude is a fundamental attitude in the Christian life, and the lack of it can be seen as a disrespect to God’s goodness and a sign of disobedience.
Gratitude is a feeling that should be expressed not only in words, but also in deeds. The act of giving thanks is a humble gesture that recognizes God’s generosity in our lives. When we are grateful, we honor God and demonstrate our trust and faith in him. Also, gratitude helps us maintain a positive outlook towards life, even in difficult times.
The story of the ten lepers teaches us that gratitude is a choice we make, regardless of the circumstances. We must always remember to thank God for his blessings, even when things are not going well. Gratitude is the key to a life filled with joy, peace and contentment.
Aprofunde seus conhecimentos
82. Why is Jesus called “Christ”?
175. In what does the mission of the Apostles consist?
79. What is the Good News for humanity?
55. What is divine providence?
235. How does the Church on earth celebrate the liturgy?
Acesse nossos estudos biblicos:
How can faith influence Christian behavior according to 2 Thessalonians 1:11-12?
What do the horseman, angel, and Lord symbolize in Zechariah’s vision described in Zechariah 1:8-17?
What are the characteristics a Christian leader should have according to 1 Timothy 3:1-7?
What is the story of Uzziah and how was he punished for disobeying God?
What does the book of Hosea teach us about God’s unwavering love for his people?
