Practice Thankfulness #320

Luke 17:11-19 (NASB)

Ten Lepers Cleansed Only One Showed Gratitude

11 While He was on the way to Jerusalem, He was passing between Samaria and Galilee. 12 As He entered a village, ten leprous men who stood at a distance met Him; 13 and they raised their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” 14 When He saw them, He said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they were going, they were cleansed. 15 Now one of them, when he saw that he had been healed, turned back, glorifying God with a loud voice, 16 and he fell on his face at His feet, giving thanks to Him. And he was a Samaritan. 17 Then Jesus answered and said, “Were there not ten cleansed? But the nine—where are they? 18  Was no one found who returned to give glory to God, except this foreigner?” 19 And He said to him, “Stand up and go; your faith has made you well.

When was the last time you said, “Thank you, I really appreciate you” to someone? Maybe you said it to Mom or Dad or a close friend or to your favorite teacher. But how about saying that to a teller at the bank, or the person who waits on you at a grocery store, or maybe it needs to be that family member that serves you daily.

Have you ever noticed the response you get when you show a little gratitude? Jesus had healed 10 lepers; only one came back to thank him and show appreciation. Jesus was obviously impressed with the man’s heart of gratefulness. But he was also impressed that he fell on his face and gave thanks. Verbal thanks means a lot. Jesus was also pleased that the gratitude shown by the man also brought glory to God.

Practice this week by saying to those you encounter. “Thank you, I so appreciate you and what you do.”

____________________Today's personal note from Dennis

Greetings from Home

I did make it to Starbucks one morning this week, but most of the week has been spent at home trying to regain strength. 

We had a great time as we celebrated Justin's 2nd birthday on December 3, 2014. He is a real delight with lots of energy. Johnny, as big brother, does everything to help BRO as he calls Justin. The picture of Johnny, Justin and Santa was snapped just as the camera man said, "Show some teeth." Johnny obliged and pulled Justin's mouth apart to show some teeth. The look on Santa's face is priceless. 

Sandy and I have attended as many band concerts and choir concerts as I could handle. Bennett, Burke and Collin do such a great job with their music. 

Sunday, the 14th we will celebrated Collin, Susan, Mandy and Roger's birthdays. It was a great evening sharing with the family. 

We, as a family, are involved in a major fund raiser for my health treatment. Sandy and I are still trying to stay involved in church. We even attended our Sunday School Class on Friday night. What a wonderful time with all of them. I am so thankful and appreciate of what they are placing in our lives. 

Several of you have already sent money to the fund raisers. As of this time two are up and working. We have ways for you to help. Our goal is 60,000 dollars to pay for expenses, treatment, travel, lodging and and follow up. 

If you are interested in receiving a tax deductible contribution please send the check payable to First Baptist Church. The memo on the outside of the envelop and on the memo line of your check MUST say MEDICAL FAITH FUND. Please DO NOT WRITE MY NAME ON THE CHECK. You will be sent a tax deduction at the end of the year. 

The Church address is FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH OF TEMPE, 4525 S McCLINTOCK DR. TEMPE, AZ 85282.

Another way you may help us reach our goal is by going to "Dennis Wood's Carcinoid Cancer Treatment Fundraiser" on GiveForward at http://gfwd.at/1xbrLly.

You can donate to the fundraiser and give words of encouragement in the form of a "HUG". Thank you for your support.   

I am still experiencing pain and weakness. I see the oncologist and the gastroenterologist this week. Time is growing close. Still waiting on the medical records from KY to arrive. 

Thanks for your prayers. ~ DGW