Only One Came Back To Say Thank You

Listening to Dolly Parton’s song “Hello God,” I couldn’t help but think about how it gained so much popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic. People turned to God more than ever during that difficult time, seeking comfort and guidance. Statistics show that many became more “religious,” praying fervently and drawing closer to the Creator in the face of uncertainty. However, once the vaccine was introduced and the world began to stabilize, many returned to their normal ways, perhaps forgetting the closeness they once sought.

This brought to mind the story of the ten lepers from Luke 17:11-19:

“11 Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him. They stood at a distance 13 and called out in a loud voice, ‘Jesus, Master, have pity on us!’ 14 When he saw them, he said, ‘Go, show yourselves to the priests.’ And as they went, they were cleansed. 15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. 17 Jesus asked, ‘Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?’ 19 Then he said to him, ‘Rise and go; your faith has made you well.’”

Out of the ten lepers, only one remembered to return and thank Jesus. This story speaks volumes about human nature. Often, we go through life’s challenges—illness, loss, hardship—and when God extends His grace, bringing healing or solutions, we sometimes forget to return and say “thank you.” It’s easy to forget the power of gratitude, especially when things return to normal.

How often do we overlook thanking God for the second chances He gives us? Whether it’s healing, new opportunities, peace of mind, or unexpected blessings, we must cultivate a heart of gratitude. This extends beyond just God—how many times have we neglected to express our appreciation to family and friends for their kindness, their help, and their support? Like the nine lepers who didn’t return, we can be quick to enjoy the blessings but slow to offer thanks.

Don Moen’s song “Give Thanks” reminds us beautifully of the importance of gratitude:

“Give thanks with a grateful heart
Give thanks to the Holy One
Give thanks because He’s given Jesus Christ, His Son.

And now let the weak say, ‘I am strong’
Let the poor say, ‘I am rich’
Because of what the Lord has done for us.”

These words serve as a powerful reminder that in all situations, we must remain grateful. Whether we are feeling weak or strong, poor or rich, everything we have comes from God’s hand. Let us not be like the nine who forgot to return, but instead, let us be like the one who came back to express his gratitude.

So, my challenge to you this weekend is simple but profound: remember to say “thank you.” Be grateful for both the big and the small things, to God and to the people in your life. Gratitude has the power to transform our perspective and bring us closer to the heart of God.

Don’t let your healing or blessing pass without giving thanks—for the one who remembers to say thank you is the one who is truly made whole.