Showing Gratitude

“He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked Him – and he was a Samaritan.”
Luke 17:16 (NIV)

Imagine going to a restaurant and receiving wonderful service. Your server always fills your water glass, brings your order on time, is pleasant, and does everything they can to make your meal an enjoyable experience. You might find yourself saying, “thank you, thank you!” 

But what is the real way to say “thank you” for fantastic service? The tip.

We tend to think of being grateful in the way we were taught as children. How many times have you given them something and asked, “Now what do you say?” Of course you are supposed to answer, “Thank you.” True thanksgiving, however, is not just said. It is shown.

In Luke 17, Jesus heals ten lepers, but only one takes the time to come back, falling at Jesus’ feet to thank Him. If Jesus had gone to those other nine lepers and said, “Aren’t you thankful for what I’ve done for you? Aren’t you grateful that I’ve healed you?” They might have said, “Of course we are.” But genuine thankfulness is shown. And the Holy Spirit will give you the power to do it. 

You can choose not only to say “thank you” to God, but also to show gratitude today. You can show thankfulness on this Thanksgiving Day by expressing thanks to God for His provision and kindness to others for their presence in your life. 

God will help you experience joy and share His peace even in complex family dynamics and awkward moments. And you can choose, today, no matter what is happening around you, to be truly thankful. 

Prayer: Father, when I remember You and Your provision and presence in my life, every day is a day of thanksgiving. Give me a heart and attitude of thankfulness to You today. Help me to choose gratitude and generosity as I relate with others and demonstrate a heart that is truly thankful by showing Your kindness and grace today. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.