Thank You, Jesus: A Meditation on Gratitude – Br. John Goldring

In the gospel according to Luke we read that Jesus was approached by ten lepers. They asked to be cured. Jesus cured them all, but only one said thank you. Ten were cured by Jesus. And only one leper, a Samaritan, turned back to Jesus and kneeling at his feet, thanked him and praised God with a loud voice.

How often do we say thank you to Jesus? How often do we say thank you for all the good gifts he give us? Life itself is a gift. The food we eat is a gift. Friendship is a gift. The warmth of the sun is a gift. Intelligence is a gift. The mercy of God is a gift. Living in community is a gift. Laughter is a gift. Tears are a gift. A hug, an embrace is a gift. Rain is a gift. Snow is a gift. Being made in the Image of God is a gift. Our existence is a gift. The Holy Spirit is a gift. Every time we celebrate the Eucharist, it is “the Great Thanksgiving” in which we give thanks for all that has been, all this is, and all that will be.

So our life should overflow with thanksgiving to Jesus. Thanksgiving should be the driving force in our daily lives. When you wake up in the morning, say thank you to Jesus. When you go to bed say thank you to Jesus. Thank you, Jesus. Thank you, thank you, thank you.