Words of Grace

By Rev. Mahlon Nevel

Jesus and his disciples were on their way to Jerusalem when they were met by ten men who had leprosy. Keeping their distance, as the law required, they lifted up their voices, crying:
“Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” (Luke 17:13)

When Jesus saw them and heard their plea, he did have mercy on them. The ten lepers were healed immediately. Only one of them gave thanks.

To that one, Jesus said, “Arise and go your way. Your faith has made you whole.”

He showed his faith when he fell down at Jesus’ feet and said, “Thank you.” Being made whole means that he was healed both physically and spiritually.

Literally, his faith had saved him. Jesus, the Son of God, came to seek and to save those who were lost. (Luke 19:10)

Nine of the lepers were healed of their physical disease. One of them was healed and saved, and he glorified God by giving thanks.

The story is told about a well-known Christian who lived in a small town in Scotland. He had suffered from a severe nasal infirmity that required surgery.

Dr. Adams, a nose, throat and ear specialist, operated and the operation gave him the relief he needed. He was helped so much that he sat down and wrote a letter of thanks.

In a few days he received a reply from the surgeon. He wrote that he was going to keep the letter in his files. It was the first letter of thanks he had ever received.