Homily – Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time (Year C)

Theme: “A Grateful Heart is a Blessed Heart”
Readings: 2 Kings 5:14–17; Psalm 98:1–4; 2 Timothy 2:8–13; Luke 17:11–19




Introduction

Gratitude is one of the simplest and most powerful acts of faith. Yet, in a world filled with entitlement and self-interest, saying “thank you” has almost become rare. Today’s readings invite us to rediscover the transforming power of thanksgiving.

Life Story

There’s a story of a man who prayed, “Lord, give me a bicycle!” After weeks of no answer, he decided to steal one and prayed, “Lord, forgive me.” Sometimes we are quick to ask but slow to give thanks!

The Word of God

In the first reading, Naaman, a foreigner from Syria, is healed of leprosy after washing in the Jordan. When he realises his healing, his heart overflows with gratitude. He recognises that there is no God like the God of Israel. His thanksgiving is not just words — it’s a conversion of heart.

In the Gospel (Luke 17:11–19), ten lepers cry out for healing, and Jesus responds with mercy. Yet, only one returns — a Samaritan, an outsider — to give thanks and glorify God. Jesus asks, “Where are the other nine?” It’s a painful question, not just for them, but for us too. How often do we take God’s blessings for granted?

The second reading reminds us that faithfulness in Christ is the heart of Christian living. Gratitude flows from remembering that even when we are unfaithful, God remains faithful.

Connection of the Readings

Naaman and the Samaritan both represent outsiders whose gratitude brings them closer to God. Gratitude, therefore, is not only good manners — it is an act of faith, a recognition that healing and life are gifts from God.

Reflection Questions

  1. How often do I thank God for the ordinary blessings of life — breath, family, peace, work, health?

  2. Do I recognise the hidden miracles that God performs daily in my life?

  3. Am I among the nine who forget, or the one who returns to say thank you?

Implications for Daily Living

In this Jubilee Year and the Synod on Synodality, gratitude becomes a form of walking together in faith. A thankful person builds community — because gratitude creates connection, humility, and generosity. When we live in thanksgiving, we make space for others to experience God’s kindness through us.

Inspiration and Motivation

A grateful heart is never empty. It sees blessings even in difficulties, and hope even in loss. Gratitude turns obstacles into opportunities and ordinary moments into sacred encounters.

Quote of the Day

“Gratitude is the memory of the heart.” — Saint Mary Euphrasia Pelletier

Final Thoughts

Today, let us not be like the nine who walked away, healed but silent. Let us be like the one who turned back, fell at Jesus’ feet, and glorified God. Gratitude completes the miracle.

Conclusion

Every healing, every answered prayer, every sunrise deserves a word of thanks.
Let our hearts echo with one refrain today: “Thank You, Lord.”

Concluding Prayer

Lord Jesus,
You have given me more than I deserve and blessed me more than I asked for.
Like the healed leper, I return to You today in gratitude.
Thank You for the gift of faith, for Your mercy, and for Your steadfast love.
Teach me to recognise Your hand in all things — in joy and in struggle.
May my thanksgiving overflow into acts of love and service.
Help me live this day as a hymn of gratitude.
Amen.

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