November 13, 2024

First, Jesus said that as I’m starting post messages on social media and learning how to do that, be sure to return to and maintain the well of stillness within for my own refreshment and renewal.  It is a deep well of peace and reflection, quiet communing.

Luke 17:11-19

Jesus was journeying to Jerusalem.  He journeyed a lot; he was often on the road, and he encountered all kinds of situations.  On this day, outside a village ten lepers met him and raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master! Have pity on us!”  In this way, we can supplicate the Lord sincerely and with our whole heart when we are moved to.  We can call out loudly, even if that means within our own heart (not externally). 

Jesus’ immediate response was to tell them to go show themselves to the priests, the ones who would determine if they were healed and worthy to re-enter society.  They obeyed Jesus, and as they went on the way to the priests, they were healed.  We learn from this that obeying God’s voice is inherently healing.

One of them realized he was healed.  He had the presence of mind to be aware that he was healed, and he glorified God in a loud voice and fell at the feet of Jesus and thanked him.  Supplicating God for our healing is one form of prayer, and expressing gratitude for blessings is an equally important part of our relationship. 

Jesus remarked, “Ten were cleansed , were they not? Where are the other nine? Has none but this foreigner returned to give thanks to God?”  Then he said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has saved you.”  Here his faith is his confidence he could be healed, his awareness he was healed, and his gratitude at being healed, that is, his relationship with God. As in any relationship, it is good to say thank you. And faith is the cement by which we glue ourselves to God. 

You are on your way to centering prayer practice at church.  More later. Amen.