Be sure to thank Him

“One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting, “Praise God!” He fell to the ground at Jesus’ feet, thanking him for what he had done. This man was a Samaritan.” Luke 17:15-16 NLT

In an article titled, “Cardiologist Rescuscitates Two Fellow Runners During California Half Marathon” published Tuesday, the following was reported: Two runners collapsed and needed mid-race medical attention at the Monterey Bay Half Marathon on November 13. Until help arrived, runner and local cardiologist Steven Lome, D.O., administered life-saving measures to both male runners. Lome, who encountered the runners at separate times along the 13.1 mile course but did not treat them in the hospital, later tweeted: “Both had undiagnosed heart disease, out-of-hospital cardiac arrest, and made full recoveries. What are the odds that two people have a cardiac arrest in one race? What are the odds they both make a full recovery (normally only 5% survive out of hospital cardiac arrest?) What are the odds that the same cardiologist happens to be right behind them both???” I'd say the odds are pretty slim, wouldn't you? 

And you know, when it comes to life-saving treatments and the odds, the Bible gives us the story of the ten lepers who begged Jesus to take away their leprosy. As horribly painful and disfiguring as this condition was, you would expect the odds to be 100% that all ten would return and thank Jesus after completely healing them wouldn’t you? But can you believe that ONLY one of those healed came back to Jesus shouting “Praise God!?” Only one! The other nine went on their way seemingly oblivious to the miracle that had just happened and ungrateful of the love and mercy the Savior showed. And while you and I might be shaking our heads in unbelief at this point, how many times have we failed to thank the Savior for His unmerited grace, kindness and mercy?

So as we celebrate this Thanksgiving holiday, let us publicly shout ”Praise God!” and then fall at Jesus' feet, thanking Him for all He has done for us. Can you think of any better way to start the day? With 100% certainty, I can say absolutely not. Expressing our gratitude to the Savior is the best way to start today and every day. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for loving us despite the many times we failed to thank You. Thank You for the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross and the forgiveness of sin that provided us. Today and every day cause us to acknowledge You as the Giver of all good things, both in our prayer closets and in the city streets. It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen.

Happy Thanksgiving and Happy Running!