Psalm 97 (98)
2 Timothy 2:8-13
Luke 17:11-19
THANKFULNESS, AN ACT OF FAITH
An attitude of gratitude for everything is one of the secrets of a happy life. Unfortunately, contemporary society tends to lose such beautiful virtue. Thus, today’s readings invite us to rediscover the importance to show gratitude and thankfulness to God and to others for even the little things. The first reading presents how Naaman, a high ranked official of the Syrian army, showed gratitude when he got healed from his leprosy, thank to the prophet Elisha. The responsorial psalm is a song of praise to God for his wonders and saving power revealed to the nations.
In the Second Reading, St Paul made mention of the hardships he had to bear for the sake of the Good News he was entrusted with. The news about Jesus is “Good” precisely because it brings liberation, salvation, joy and peace to us. Thus, we should be joyful and thankful to God for this great mystery manifested to us in Jesus Christ. The gospel reading narrates the curing of ten lepers by Jesus on his way to Jerusalem. However, only one person, a Samaritan, came back to thank him and glorify God when he discovered that he had been made well.
Consequently, two lessons may be drawn from today’s readings. First, we are exhorted to give thank to God always, everywhere and for everything, even in the midst of hardships and sufferings. For his faithfulness and goodness towards us are without end. And the privileged way to do so is the Eucharist, from the Greek work eukaristia (thanksgiving). It is therefore a contradiction to have a gloomy face during Mass. Second, let us learn to show gratitude and appreciation towards one another, even in little matters.
To say “Thank you” may appear too simple and not always necessary but it is the sign of noble soul; and ingratitude may be said to be a dangerous leprosy for a Christian soul. Let us remember “In all circumstances, says Paul, give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Jesus Christ” (1Thes. 5:18). May the Lord bless and teach us how to be grateful every moment of our lives. Amen
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