Today is the end of the 365 days of 2022! What an amazing time to look back and appreciate God for His faithfulness. As we transition into 2023, I know that there are a lot of messages, for example, on planning, resolutions, determination, new goal and a fresh start. All these things are important, and I am also working on them. One thing that remains is that as Christians, we should ‘overflow with thankfulness’ (Colossians 2:7c).

In our verses for today (Luke 17:17-18), Jesus poses some question “Were not all 10 cleansed? Where are the other 9? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” What led Jesus to ask these questions?

In the preceding verses, 10 men who were covered with leprosy met Jesus. They stood at a distance because they were not allowed to mix and mingle with those who did not have this skin disease. There, they called out in a loud voice to get Jesus’ attention. They say “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!” Jesus gives them specific instructions and as they were carrying these out, they were cleansed of their leprosy. There is something to be said about ‘obedience’ here but that is not the focus of my message.

Only 1 of the 10, when he saw that he was healed came back to Jesus, threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked Him.

Realising that only 1 out of 10 came back to give thanks, Jesus then asks the questions above. Right at the end of this year, I would imagine that Jesus is asking, were not all helped/assisted and carried in different ways? How come I do not see everyone coming back to give thanks?

Here in South Africa, I do not have to remind you of the horrors of the recent Boksburg explosion which has claimed 34 lives as of today! What a difficult way to end the year for the country and especially for the family and friends of the deceased and the injured. Each one of us who was spared has a duty to return to God and give thanks to Him. Everyday, God hides us from explosions, accidents, etc.

I think it’s very easy to trivialise the goodness of God. When we want something, we are often sincere and mean it from our hearts. However, when the thing we wanted is done, it is easy to forget how life was before we got what we prayed and hoped for. As we transition into 2023, may I challenge you not to wait until the end of 2023 to reflect and thank God. Rather, why don’t we reflect on the goodness of God at the end of each day and thank God from our hearts for the visible and invisible blessings.

May I please challenge you to overflow with gratitude. May I please challenge you to give thanks in every situation.

Full context, please read Luke 17:11-19.

This article is written by;
Kenny Chiwarawara holds a PhD, Masters and BA Honours in Development Studies. He has an undergraduate degree in Theology.