“Gratitude Defined”

“Thank you.”  It’s a phrase most of us learn at an early age.  Our parents teach us to show respect and gratitude by telling those that serve us, care for us, or bless us in some way by saying these two words.  Often times the cynicism that comes with maturity can create within us the belief that gratitude is inferred or assumed.  In the account in Luke 17 Jesus heals ten men with leprosy, but only one returns to say thanks.  We can assume with great confidence that all 10 men were very grateful to be welcomed back into society and the temple.  However, only the one who returns to give thanks is commended for his gratitude.  What we learn from his encounter is that gratitude is only gratitude when it is in the form of an expression.