In our Gospel reading today, ten lepers cry out to Jesus, asking Him to have pity on them. I’m sure they had heard that Jesus had healed many people from their varied afflictions and that—maybe, just maybe—He could free them from their burden of leprosy. Jesus does free them, of course, and we read that one of them immediately returned and fell at Jesus’s feet, profusely expressing his gratitude. I think this gives us a view of what it means to be truly thankful to the Lord.

Many of us have been freed in recovery from our addictions, compulsions, and unhealthy attachments. For this, we ought to be eternally grateful to our Lord and Savior, just like the man who fell at Jesus’ feet, Paul before the Corinthians, and the Psalmist in praise of God’s wondrous works. Whether this is your first Thanksgiving in recovery or one of many, today let us offer sincere thanksgiving and praise to our loving creator for the gifts of recovery and freedom.

Reflection Questions

• List ten things for which you are grateful this Thanksgiving Day. How might you express your sincere appreciation to the Lord for these things?
• How can you incorporate maintaining a spirit of gratitude and thanksgiving to enhance your recovery?

Daily Mass Readings

First Reading: Sirach 50:22-24
Responsorial Psalm:  Psalm 145:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9, 10-11
Second Reading: 1 Corinthians 1:3-9
Gospel: Luke 17:11-19

Reflection by Kevin S.