Luke wrote the story of Jesus walking one day toward Jerusalem, hearing ten lepers shouting at him from a distance, “Master, have mercy on us!” Jesus instructed them simply but plainly to “go and show yourselves to the priests.” As the men obeyed, walking toward the synagogues, they discovered they had been healed. Imagine their happiness, their wonder at seeing their now clean, smooth, perfect skin. Immediately, one of the men turned back and ran to Jesus, fell on his face at His feet and gave Him thanks. And Jesus said, “Were there not ten cleansed? Where are the other nine?” (Luke 17:11-19).

Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” —Luke 17:18-19 NIV

I can’t imagine not returning to thank Jesus for the gift of healing. But then I realize I too fall short of maintaining an attitude of gratitude for the many every day gifts He gives. It’s easy to slip into a negative mindset when faced with so much trouble and chaos in the world around us. Life is filled with ups and downs. I have to stop and think about how much grace and mercy I have been granted up to this point in my life.  When I do this, I feel so much gratitude towards God.

As Christians, being thankful is tied to trusting God—to believing all He does is good and for our good. By showing our gratitude, it is also a way to please God. Gratitude begins in the heart. Children learn it best from moms and dads who demonstrate a grateful heart as a way of life.

As recipients of His abundant kindness will you purpose to be more grateful?  For His grace and unmerited favor, will you teach your children to give thanks also?  Let us resolve to please God with an attitude of gratitude. It will make our lives that much better.