The Thankful Leper

Just as we saw last week that generosity with money is a clear mark of a true believer, so this passage also reveals another obvious indicator in the generous giving of thanks to God for His abundant mercy. A heart of gratitude is most revealing and most appropriate in response to God's gracious provisions for our deepest needs. Ten leprous men received an amazing gift at no cost, yet only one returned to say thank you. All ten asked for mercy, and all ten were healed physically, but only one turned back, unashamedly glorifying God with a loud voice and falling on his face at the feet of Jesus. He was a despised Samaritan, yet he gave thanks for his healing. In response to his faith in God, Jesus also made him well spiritually.