THE HEALING OF THE ten lepers in Luke 17 is a familiar story. Jesus responds to their plea for mercy and heals them, yet only one returns to offer thanks. When Jesus asks, “Where are the other nine?” (Lk.17:17), He is not simply seeking gratitude. Rather, He reveals that healing was only the beginning of what He desired to give. Jesus longed for a deeper and lasting relationship with each of them and with us today.
To nurture this relationship, we must remain open to God’s presence and the many ways He pours His love into our lives. Reflecting daily on His gifts fosters gratitude, which brings joy, freedom and strengthens our relationships. Gratitude is more than acknowledging blessings. It is an invitation to grow closer to the Giver.
The Mass is a prayer of thanksgiving. Through the prayers of the priest, we are led into worship, praise, supplication and gratitude. When we approach the altar for Holy Communion, we offer ourselves and welcome Jesus into our hearts. Yet, how often do we mentally check out before Mass ends, already planning the rest of our day?
This moment invites reflection. Will we be like the nine lepers who, after receiving healing, walked away? Or like the one who returned, recognizing the presence of Jesus and responding with thanksgiving?
The saints offer us another way to live. Instead of rushing out after Communion, consider remaining a few minutes in silent prayer. This simple act of stillness deepens our encounter with Jesus and allows us to respond with love to the One who has given Himself to us. Take ten minutes after Mass to thank Jesus for His many gifts, especially His Real Presence within you. Offer thanks not only for joys but also for trials, disappointments and suffering. Ask the Father for the grace to believe that Jesus is all you need and that there is nowhere else you would rather be. These moments of surrender can shape your day and help you become more present to others.
If you have young children and cannot stay long, lead them in a brief, spontaneous prayer of thanksgiving. This helps instill in them the habit of gratitude after Communion. You might also consider traditional prayers such as the Anima Christi, Padre Pio’s “Stay With Me,” or St. Thomas Aquinas’ post-Communion prayer.
Whatever form your prayer takes, know that offering your grateful heart to Jesus is a beautiful and consoling gift to Him. Remaining with Him allows His grace to take deeper root in your life as you go out to be His witness in a world that seeks His Presence.