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Word to the Wise

Sunday, October 12, 2025 - 28th Sunday in Ordinary Time - C

[2 Kgs 5:14-17; 2 Tim 2:8-13; Luke 17:11-19]
"Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?" Then [Jesus] said to him, "Stand up and go; your faith has saved you." [Luke]


     The story of the healing of the ten lepers is often read at the celebration of the Eucharist on Thanksgiving Day in the USA.  The reason is simple, salvation in this story takes place when the unexpected Samaritan returns to give thanks to God for his healing.  The miracle of healing touched all ten, but salvation came to only one of them:  the Samaritan.  His gratitude led him to understand that his healing had come from God and not just from some wandering wonder-worker!  It is his gratitude that is a manifestation of faith.
     A friend of mine once said to me, "Nobody is guaranteed a tomorrow!"  It's a sobering thought, but one that calls for gratitude to God for every day of life, and not just for special favors from God.  For many in our world, that day may be hard because of lack of peace, shelter, food, clothing or healthcare.  But gratitude for every breath we take can be a start.  After that, I consider good health and friendship to be the things I am most grateful for.  I cannot take either for granted.  Yes, there are other great "blessings" to be included - the list is long.  The important thing is to realize the connection between a blessing and faith in, and gratitude to,  God who gives it.  Otherwise, we become one of the "other nine."  AMEN

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