Readings: Wisdom 6:1-11, Ps. 82:3-4,6-7, Luke 17:11-19
“Then said Jesus, ‘Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and praise God except this foreigner?’ And he said to him, ‘Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.” (Luke 17:17-19)
Today’s first reading from the Book of Wisdom is particularly addressed to anyone in any position of authority. It reminds us that all power belongs to God, and he grants any authority you possess. Exercise your authority responsibly, always keeping in mind that you will be answerable to God for it: “For the Lord of all will not stand in awe of anyone, nor show deference to greatness; because he made both small and great, and he takes thought for all alike.” (Wisdom 6:7).
In response to the leper who came to give thanks, Jesus said, “Your faith has made you well.” This suggests a link between gratitude and faith. It takes faith to recognise that the good things that come our way are never by chance. By thanking God, we become increasingly aware of His power. The more we count our blessings, the healthier we feel.
To the ungrateful heart, prayers are merely a waste of time, a reminder of their pains and an increase in their fears. Learn to count your blessings so you do not develop a negative attitude towards life. To every cloud, there is a silver lining. No matter how tough things get, there is always something to be grateful for. Consistently thank God so you can confidently ask Him when you need to. Ten lepers were cured, but only one was made well. Being cured of our problems is one thing: gratitude makes us whole, complete, and well.
Many Christians today resemble the remaining nine lepers; God has answered their prayers, but their ingratitude prevents them from being made whole. They often complain about unanswered prayers, not because God has failed to do more than what they request, but because they have yet to notice God’s blessings. Ingratitude — taking the small things of life for granted — is a sickness only you can cure. It is like a man being confined in a prison cell, crying day and night to be fed, while the key to the cell lies right beside him.
Today, we remember St. Josaphat of Polotsk, a dedicated Eastern Rite bishop and martyr who tirelessly worked for unity within the Church. In 1604, he chose a religious life over personal opportunities by joining the Holy Trinity Monastery in Vilna, influenced by Jesuit teachings and a supportive rector. In 1617, Josaphat became the bishop of Vitebsk and later of Polotsk, where he found the church in decline. He organised synods, published a catechism, and enforced strict rules for clergy conduct. Through his efforts in preaching, teaching, and assisting those in need, he began restoring the church.
However, his work faced opposition from Orthodox separatists and the rival archbishop Meletius Smotritsky, leading to public unrest. On 12 November 1623, a mob attacked him. Josaphat was brutally beaten, axed, shot, and ultimately thrown into a river. In recognition of his unwavering dedication, St. Josaphat was canonised in 1867, becoming the first Eastern Church saint formally recognised by the Catholic Church.
Let us pray: Stir up in your Church, we pray, O Lord, the Spirit that filled Saint Josaphat as he laid down his life for the sheep, so that through his intercession we, too, may be strengthened by the same Spirit and not be afraid to lay down our lives for others. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen
Be Happy. Live Positive. Have Faith. It is well with you. May God’s abundant blessings be upon us all. (Saint Josaphat, Bishop, Martyr. Liturgical Colour: Red. Bible Study: Wisdom 6:1-11, Ps. 82:3-4,6-7, Luke 17:11-19)
@Rev. Fr. Evaristus E. Abu