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Luke 17:18 (BSB)
Was no one found except this foreigner to return and give glory to God?”
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“Was no one found except this foreigner to return and give glory to God?”” — Luke 17:18
Imagine a moment where you've just experienced something amazing—like a miracle. You’re filled with gratitude, but surprisingly, you notice that not everyone shares that feeling. In this instance, a foreigner stands out, the only one who returns to express thanks to God. This moment highlights a powerful truth: sometimes, the people you least expect show the greatest appreciation. It makes you think about your own responses to life’s blessings. Are you quick to express gratitude, or do you take things for granted? This verse shines a spotlight on the beauty of thankfulness, especially from unexpected places.
This incredible story was written by Luke, a doctor and a detailed storyteller who aimed to document the life and teachings of Jesus in a relatable way. Luke had a unique perspective—he often highlighted the marginalized and those seen as outsiders. By including this detail about the foreigner, he emphasizes the importance of recognizing gratitude in unexpected places. Luke's goal was to inspire readers to see the bigger picture of compassion and thankfulness, encouraging everyone to appreciate the good in their lives, regardless of their background.
This was written during a time when the Jewish people were under Roman rule, and the social landscape was filled with division and prejudice. People from different backgrounds often clashed, and there was a clear divide between Jews and Samaritans. This setting is crucial because it highlights the shocking nature of the foreigner’s gratitude. When you picture the tension and the societal norms of the day, it makes the Samaritan’s response even more remarkable. It challenges you to think about your own biases and how you view those who are different from you.
This verse matters today because it challenges you to reflect on your own gratitude. It encourages you to look around and see who you might be overlooking when it comes to appreciation and acknowledgment. In a world that often takes things for granted, this moment reminds you of the power of saying 'thank you,' especially to those who might not be in your inner circle. It invites you to embrace a spirit of gratitude that transcends boundaries and expectations, making you more aware of life's blessings, big and small.
This week, take a moment to reflect on the blessings in your life—big or small. Write down three things you’re grateful for and then reach out to someone who has helped you in some way, whether they’re a close friend or someone you’ve just met. Let them know how much you appreciate what they did. This simple act of gratitude can create a ripple effect, inspiring others to express their thanks too. Also, keep an eye out for those unexpected sources of kindness in your life; it might surprise you who shows up on your gratitude list!
This verse comes after an incredible event where ten people suffering from a terrible skin disease are healed by Jesus. They all cry out for mercy, and Jesus tells them to show themselves to the priests, who can confirm their healing. On their way, they realize they’ve been cured! But only one, a Samaritan (someone from a group often looked down upon by the Jews), turns back to thank Jesus. This moment is crucial because it emphasizes how often gratitude is overlooked, especially by those who might feel entitled to what they receive. It shows that true appreciation can come from the most unlikely sources, and it sets the stage for a deeper lesson about thankfulness and recognition.
What does this verse teach you about gratitude, especially towards people you might not expect to feel thankful for?
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