Daily Devotional for Wednesday, April 8

The Return of the One Leper

“And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,  and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?” Luke 17:15-17.

Jesus had just performed a life-changing miracle—ten lepers, outcasts of society, were healed as they obeyed His command to go show themselves to the priests. Yet, out of all ten, only one returned. This man, a Samaritan, not only came back but fell at Jesus’ feet, worshiping and giving thanks. In that moment, his gratitude became a testimony of faith. 

Jesus asked a pointed question: “Where are the nine?” (verse 17). It is not just a question about numbers—it is a question about the heart. Ten received mercy, but only one responded with worship. The other nine were so caught up in their new freedom and restored lives that they forgot to honor the One who made it all possible. They were physically healed but missed the deeper blessing that only comes through a relationship with the Healer. 

The returning leper received something far greater than the others. Jesus said to him, “Thy faith hath made thee whole.” (verse 19). Not just healed—but whole. His gratitude revealed a heart changed, not just a body restored. In his return, we see the power of thankfulness and the difference between being touched by God and truly knowing Him. 

In a world that constantly seeks blessings, may we be the one who returns. Let our healing, our provision and our answered prayers drive us back to the feet of Jesus in worship and thanksgiving.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY 

Many receive from Jesus, but few return to thank Him. May you be the one who always comes back to give Him glory.

Steven Ridings