Dr. Rob White - August 11, 2024
Returning Thankfully
Christ calls us to open our eyes to see and our hearts to receive God's blessings.
Scripture References: Luke 17:11-19
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In this week’s sermon, titled “Returning Thankfully,” Dr. Rob White explores the profound lesson of gratitude found in Luke 17:11-19, where Jesus heals ten lepers, yet only one—a Samaritan—returns to give thanks. This narrative underscores the importance of recognizing and expressing gratitude for the blessings we receive, no matter how grand or small.
Dr. White begins by reminding us that gratitude is a fundamental virtue often instilled in us from childhood, yet easily forgotten in our day-to-day lives. He challenges us to consider how often we, like the nine lepers who did not return, fail to thank God for the myriad blessings we experience each day—whether it’s the sunshine, good health, or the simple joys of life.
The sermon highlights the unique position of the Samaritan leper, who, despite being doubly marginalized—both as a Samaritan and as a leper—demonstrates a profound act of gratitude by returning to thank Jesus. This act of thanksgiving is not just a social courtesy but an acknowledgment of God’s mercy and grace, which transformed his life.
Dr. White also draws a parallel between the lepers’ situation and our modern lives, emphasizing that we too often take God’s gifts for granted, especially in a society where abundance is the norm. He quotes Vance Havner and Richard Douglass to stress that our lack of gratitude is not only a spiritual shortfall but a symptom of our pride and sense of entitlement.
Moreover, the sermon invites us to cultivate a habit of daily thanksgiving, encouraging us to keep a gratitude journal to become more aware of God’s continuous blessings. This practice not only honors God but enriches our spiritual lives, fostering a deeper sense of contentment and joy.
In closing, Dr. White calls on us to follow the example of the thankful leper by making a conscious effort to express our gratitude to God and others. By doing so, we open our hearts to God’s grace and align ourselves more closely with His will.
