S – As he entered a village, ten men with leprosy^, met him. They stood at a distance ¹³ and raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 

¹⁴ When he saw them, he told them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And while they were going, they were cleansed. 

¹⁵ But one of them, seeing that he was healed, returned and, with a loud voice, gave glory to God. ¹⁶ He fell facedown at his feet, thanking him. And he was a Samaritan.

Luke 17:12–16 CSB

O – Because of their disease, the lepers stood far away from Jesus.  Jewish law and culture prohibited them from being close or touching others.  When they obeyed Jesus’ command, only one came back to Jesus and said thank you.  He was not Jewish.

A – Gratitude brought the man who only knew distance into proximity with Jesus.  He never knew closeness or the power of touch.  Once he encountered Christ, he was healed and brought near.  We must never take for granted the life changing power of God.  Gratitude should be foundational in our relationship with him – it brings us closer to Him.

R – Heavenly Father, you are holy, holy, holy.  Thank you for all that you have done for us through Jesus Christ.  You have met us where we are at and healed us from our sin and brokenness.  We are grateful for the closer proximity it brings us to you.