Sir. 50:22-24 | Ps. 138:1-5 | I Cor. 1:3-9 | Lk. 17:11-19
Happy Thanksgiving! As today is Thanksgiving, all the readings refer to an attitude of gratitude. Sirach calls us to give thanks for all the wonders of our earth and to recognize that it is God who grants us all these gifts as well as our own growth. Paul is offering thanks to God for all the ways in which God has blessed the Corinthians and for all that has taken place through his own preaching and example. Paul reminds them that it is God who will continue to bless them until the day that Christ comes. Jesus, tells us how important gratitude is, when he tells the story of the ten lepers who have been healed and yet only one came back to give Him thanks. He seems disappointed that the nine did not return. As Americans, we have been blessed abundantly. Jesus invites us today to pause from our daily routines and give thanks for all of these gifts.
Take time to go to church today, if at all possible, and give thanks to God with the rest of the community. Be sure to stop and reflect with your family on all your gifts. Make time to pray together to respect all that has been given to you by giving thanks and praise. Be sure to give everyone an opportunity to express gratitude.