Memorial of Saint Josaphat, Bishop and Martyr
Luke 17:11-19
Saved by Faith

The story of the ten lepers is one of the most moving reminders of gratitude in the Gospel. Ten were healed, but only one—a Samaritan—returned to give thanks. The others received the gift, but forgot the Giver.

First, note where this incident occurred: on the border between Galilee and Samaria. Jews and Samaritans normally had nothing to do with each other, yet here they were, side by side in their suffering. Illness, pain, and misfortune had broken down the walls that divided them. It is the same for us: in our weakness, we discover our shared humanity, and in our common need, we discover God.

Second, look at the lepers’ cry. They stood at a distance, excluded and isolated, but their voices still reached Jesus: “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” And Jesus did. He sent them on their way, and as they went, they were healed. Often God’s mercy meets us not in an instant miracle, but along the road of obedience and faith.

Yet here is the heart of the Gospel: only one returned to give thanks. Gratitude is not automatic—it requires awareness, humility, and love. How easy it is to pray urgently in our time of need, but how quickly we forget when the blessing comes. We can be ungrateful to parents who once gave us everything, to friends or mentors who supported us, and above all to God, who gave us His Son.

The Samaritan shows us the way: he turned back, praised God, and fell at Jesus’ feet in thanksgiving. Gratitude deepens the gift and transforms healing into salvation. Jesus tells him, “Your faith has saved you.”

Let us remember to live with thankful hearts, never forgetting God’s benefits, and turning our blessings into praise.

© Claretian Publications, Hong Kong, China
Cum Approbatione Ecclesiastica 2025