“One of the 10 lepers, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan” (Lk.17:15-16)
Lord Jesus, I’m not a healed leper nor a Samaritan. But along with my sisters and brothers in grace, we have truckloads of reasons to praise you loudly, and throw ourselves at your feet today in gratitude, joy, and peace. Among the many reasons, here are a few we don’t want to forget or minimize.
Jesus, thank you for not only granting us full forgiveness, but also for being our perfect righteousness (1Cor.1:30). We are standing in your grace, rooted in your love, and kept for eternity. Thank you. We didn’t win the lottery—10,000 times better, you gave yourself to us and for us.
Thank you being at work in all things for our good, all the time, no exceptions (Rom.8:28). We don’t have to like our circumstances, sufferings, or your timing—but we have every reason to trust and love you.
Thank you for being the “King of the World” (Natalie Grant)—the song that filled the room and my heart, just as I began this prayer today. Indeed, Jesus, when we forget that you are already ruling and reigning over everything, our fears, anxieties, and anger get ramped up. That’s not helpful to us or anyone around us.
Thank you for loving our kids, grands, kids-in-law, spouses, and parents more than we do. We’d love to write everybody’s stories and control all their choices. Jesus, we acknowledge there’s both “heavenly” and extremely selfish reasons in wanting that much power over people we love. You didn’t make us anyone’s “potter,” but everyone’s servant. Help and
