Gratitude: Reflections on the 28th Sunday in Ordinary

Dearly beloved,

Gratitude is the central theme in the readings for this weekend. Every year, we have the privilege of celebrating Thanksgiving Day. I would typically ask people what they were thankful for. I notice how difficult it could be for people to verbalize what they were grateful for. We take things for granted that we do not realize that everything is grace, and that we receive everything we have freely from the loving hands of God. For example, we get accustomed to good health that we do not realize to what extent people are willing to go to regain their health or stay healthy. Today, permit me to ask you, “What are you thankful for?” Do you consider that there is someone deserving of your gratitude or do you take favors done to you for granted? There is a saying among the Yoruba people of Nigeria, “Not to be grateful for favors received is to have stolen them.” Rendered differently, “The ungrateful person is worse than a thief.” It is appropriating what one had received as though one had a right to it.

Both Naaman and the Samaritan in our first and gospel readings, return after receiving their cure, to show gratitude. The Samaritan was made whole because he showed gratitude, rather than walk away like the other nine who were cured of their leprosy. Naaman overcame the shame of his initial reluctance to humble himself and do as the prophet Elisha had instructed. Although the prophet would not accept compensation for a healing freely given by God, we however have the example of gratitude demonstrated by the Syrian army general, Naaman. In his gratitude for being healed, he vows never to worship any other god except the God of Israel. How do we show gratitude to the Lord for the breath we breathe every second since we were conceived until now? This week, think of someone you are grateful for and reach out to them to let them know. Also, think of something you are grateful and give appropriate thanks.

We are grateful to all our parishioners for showing up weekly, and even daily, to Mass. Thank you for praying and sharing your faith with us. We wish to remind you to support this year’s Annual Bishop’s Appeal by sending in your donations to the parish office, or by giving securely online. Go to www.diocesefwsb.org/aba When directed to choose your organization, our parish is listed as “Little Flower South Bend.” Thank you for going to the mission by giving.

May Jesus bless you, and may Our Lady protect you!