Every encounter with God brings us a little closer to heaven.
On the way to Jerusalem. At the border of Galilee and Samaria. Jesus is entering a town. Ten leprosy-stricken men are standing “at a distance, crying out, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!’ “—Luke 17:13
One Samaritan leper. Nine Jewish lepers.
Jesus heals and instructs them to see the priests who could approve of their inclusion into the local village again. To be a part of society once more. To be accepted as a citizen and live among their neighbors again. To return to their families and loved ones.
The nine leave, happy over their newfound health. But one lone man is overwhelmed by this miracle healing. He must find that miracle healer.
“One of them, when he saw that he was healed, came back to Jesus, shouting ‘Praise God!’ He fell to the ground at Jesus feet, thanking Him for what He had done. This man was a Samaritan.”—Luke 17:15
Samaritans did not possess the same faith views as the Jews. Nor were these two people groups even friends.
Astonishingly then, it is the Samaritan who seeks out Jesus. He expresses his gratitude in three ways.
First, he praises God. He credits his healing to the divine power of Jesus Christ.
Secondly, he worships God. He falls down on his hands and knees in reverence to Jesus.
Thirdly, he thanks Jesus. He pours out his joy of thanksgiving for healing him.
This was a fist pumping, high giving in the air, hallelujah in the highest, picture perfect Kodak moment.
The Samaritan leper’s response. Jesus is thrilled and deeply moved by his humility.
”Has no one returned to give glory to God except this foreigner?”
To the newly healed Samaritan man: “Stand up and go. Your faith has healed you.”—Luke 17:18-19
An encounter with God indeed opens up the door to heaven and brings us a little closer to God. Even to salvation.
Has Jesus done a marvelous or miraculous work in your life this season?
Then let joy and thanksgiving come flowing out.
Pray. Worship. Give thanks.
Repeat this Real Truth for His glory.