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Today we continue reading the 17th Chapter of Luke. Yesterday’s reading made several points, one of which was to remind us that to serve God is a duty and a privilege. In giving us the freedom to choose between right and wrong, God hoped that we would chose the right. To underline this hope, God provided guidelines, laws, to steer us in the right direction. When we decide to obey God and our right actions result in blessings for us and others, we are not to piously pat ourselves on the back; for, we have simply done what was expected of us. Our reward is the peace we experience in walking with Jesus and fulfilling his command to love others as we love our self.

Today’s reading is an example of such love. Jesus, confronted by ten lepers, is filled with compassion and in love he heals them all. Then we discover that one is a Samaritan, a hated half- breed in the eyes of a pure-bred Jew in Jesus’ day, and this is the one who returns and gives thanks to God.

God’s love extends to all people regardless of ethnicity. All people are called to recognize and trust in God’s unfailing love.

Bible Reading: Luke 17: 7-10, 11-17