“Didn’t I heal ten men? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?” (Luke 17:17-18)
He was passing by. They called out to Him for help. He sent them to some other people. They left and got what they were looking for on the way.
He helped them.
Only one returned to say thanks.
The massive hint that’s dropped here is part of Luke’s recording of the ministry of Jesus where it’s the least likely, the outsider, the underdog and the neglected who are the recipients of the amazing service of the Master. On this occasion it’s the Samaritan who would usually have no access to the community of the blessed. This is not the usual though and his response to getting what he asked for leads me to query.
Did I ever return to say thanks?
I was lost and alone, down and feeling hopeless at life’s circumstances. He pointed me in the direction of good people who helped me with identity and purpose.
Did I ever return to say thanks?
I didn’t think there was anywhere that I could call home, I didn’t think there was anyone that I could belong to. He pointed out key relationships that would soon help fix that problem and let me know that I am loved and I belong without having to conform to people’s expectations of me. They did this as they were more concerned that I was transformed by the renewing of my mind to follow God’s expectations.
Did I ever return to say thanks?
I was sick. Finding breathing so hard to do. Temperature feeling as hot as a desert one minute and shivering like I’m in the Arctic the next. Snivelling and sniffing, coughing and spluttering, crying because I felt helpless in my condition. He pointed me in the direction of His Word to heal me. Strength returned, temperature settled, conditions receded, from cowering in bed to springing up outside to get on with the day’s work.
Did I ever return to say thanks?
Not just show up to a church function and sing some feelgood songs of praise and adoration as the norm dictated. Not just pray a prayer that someone told me to pray in a general way of acknowledging His general blessings. No. Did I from my heart pour out my thanks to Him like oil to soothe His feet? Did it flow from me unhindered and effusive truly letting Him now not just how appreciative I am, but how humbled, amazed and blessed I am to be a recipient of His mercy?
It’s not something contrived and it doesn’t come from a sense of obligation. It’s the most natural response to an act of great grace, great kindness and great mercy. As it is great, so is the response.
He is passing by, if you’re in need of help. He’s willing to reach out and meet your need if you’re willing to listen. He can heal and restore and do so much more if you’re willing to listen. And when He does …
Don’t forget to return and …
(Photo by Lucas Lenzi on Unsplash)
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
C. L. J. Dryden
Life With CD 