Eighteenth Sunday after Pentecost: Gospel, Luke 17:11-19             

Luke 17:11-19

It isn’t unusual to find examples in the Bible of those we might think would be the last to have “faith” in the promises of a Jewish Messiah. The thief on the cross next to Jesus, the woman caught in adultery, or perhaps a Roman centurion caring for the needs of God’s people. These are just a few examples. They might be Jews. They might be Gentiles. But here nationality isn’t really the issue. It never is. The issue is what beats under the skin.

In our gospel text we see someone like those listed above. Now he is a “foreigner” in that he is part of the tribe of despised Samaritans. Jesus had healed ten lepers. Not by saying, “You’re healed.” No, Jesus simply gave the lepers instruction to follow previously revealed truth, “Go show yourselves to the priests.” In that “strange” word Jesus was saying in effect, “Listen closely to what God has spoken.” Trusting that Word will heal anyone whether plagued by a skin malady or addiction to the world’s foulest assaults. Ten go to the temple. Ten are healed. One returns to show gratitude. It really is quite a stunning account. And Luke adds to the drama singling out the giver of thanks this way, “And he was a Samaritan” (Luke 17:16).

Jesus is amazed and makes quick note that this one who has returned to thank the healer is a “foreigner.” And may I add my take on what “foreigner” refers to here? Yes, the man was a Samaritan, a half-breed in the eyes of pure-blood Jews. But I think there's more to it. He was a foreigner simply because no one would expect such a compromised soul to give thanks openly to the true God at the accomplishment of his Word. But he did. Jesus was amazed and we too should be-yes at the drama itself-but also because I fear I am not the only one who seldom thanks our great God for all his many and varied blessings. From lack of gratitude, deliver us, oh God.

Thank you, dear Lord. Amen!