Luke 17:11-19 NRSVue

11On the way to Jerusalem Jesus was going through the region between Samaria and Galilee. 12As he entered a village, ten men with a skin disease approached him. Keeping their distance, 13they called out, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14When he saw them, he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were made clean. 15Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice. 16He prostrated himself at Jesus’s feet and thanked him. And he was a Samaritan. 17Then Jesus asked, “Were not ten made clean? So where are the other nine? 18Did none of them return to give glory to God except this foreigner?” 19Then he said to him, “Get up and go on your way; your faith has made you well.”


Reflection on Luke 17:11-19

Inspiration from 2025-11-12 Daily Prayer

Everything we have is a gift from God. St Paul wrote, ‘Always be thankful.’ As we begin our prayer, it is the most helpful way to recall the gifts and the love of our God. The more aware we become of the gift, the more aware we become of the Giver.

Further reflection

Can I imagine this scene? Ten miserable individuals have to call on Jesus from a distance for fear of contaminating him.


What is going on in them?


What happens?


I have done it myself, Lord. I go looking for something, advertising my need, seeking sympathy. And when somebody helps me, part of me is muttering He was only doing his job, or what you'd expect of a neighbour. I take kindness for granted, and do not bother to say Thank you. It was the stranger, the Samaritan, who took the trouble to go back to Jesus and became an icon of gratitude. The other nine went for a drink, feeling - Sure that's only what the priests/doctors/healers are there for.


Thank you, Lord, that I am alive, and able to speak to you; that I have access to your word in Sacred Space. May I always count my blessings.