Ordinary Time 
Pause
Outsiders.
In loneliness, sickness, poverty, hunger, or neglect, they suffer quietly.
Outsiders sit alone eating their lunch. They stay at home, not invited.
But they have not been forgotten by God.
Listen
Jesus replied, “Weren’t ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? No one returned to praise God except this foreigner?” Then Jesus said to him, “Get up and go. Your faith has healed you.”
Luke 17:17-19
Think
Success and purpose in life are often defined in the wrong places by the wrong values. Life’s real blessings may be ignored. Those who do not take blessings for granted make up a select group of special people.
The Samaritan was responsive to what God had done in Christ. Among the ten former lepers only the Samaritan received the full blessing and assurance of Jesus. The returning leper’s gratitude revealed his faith. And he heard the comforting words: “Your faith has made you well.”
Living apart from God leaves little room for true thanksgiving in life. God is present and available. The question is — are you responding in faith to God? Return. Draw near. God hears your cry. God delivers.
James R. Smith
Pray
God, please fill my life with your presence today. Give me a grateful heart and a willing spirit. I want life with you. Amen.
Go
Jesus heals that which is broken and makes it stronger in the broken places.
In a fast-paced, diverse society, outsiders are all around.
Your word, your warmth, your walk, your friendliness can build a bridge of healing today.
