Student Daily Reflection

Jesus said in reply, “Ten were cleansed, were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?” Luke 17:17-1.

The gospel really made me stop and ask: Am I like one of the nine or the foreigner? Do I stop in the midst of this busy life to give thanks for all I have been given?

Today is Thanksgiving Day in the United States. It is a specific day set aside to recognize our blessings and give thanks. But, as Christians, shouldn’t everyday be Thanksgiving? Perhaps today can be a starting point.

We will sit down to share our Thanksgiving dinners with our families and friends. The abundance of food will nourish our bodies and the conversations will nourish our souls. It is in this moment that we will have the opportunity to recognize the incredible plenty of our lives, and that so many go without. We have a chance to lay down the demands of our busy schedules and worries on our minds and be truly present to one another. It is in this way that we come back to the heart of what truly matters. We can embrace this moment, look around, and soak up the wonderful workings of God. Like the foreigner, I believe when we truly recognize our amazing blessings we will be inspired as he was when he “fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him.”

With the recognition and thanksgiving for the gifts we have received comes the inspiration to use them to the glory of God. We are called to “Stand up and go.” Jesus urges us to action. We have been given these blessings and gifts to use in bringing about his Kingdom here on earth. He has called us to use those gifts in service to those in need. He invites us to help others recognize their gifts as well. The call is for justice. Thankful for his grace and love for us, we go forth as humble servants to do his will.

May we strive to make everyday a day of Thanksgiving.
I will give thanks to you, O LORD, with all of my heart.