Br. Luke Ditewig

Luke 17:11-19

Ten lepers called out: “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!” When he saw them, Jesus said: “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were made clean.

As they went. Not when Jesus spoke. Not when they met the priests. As they went. As they followed Jesus’ invitation. As they did the next thing asked, as they journeyed. As they went, they were healed. Healing may happen in motion, in process, as we go, as we live, as we follow during a short walk or over a long journey. We receive healing and insight both a particular points and incrementally over time.

Often, it’s the ordinary, daily grist of life with my brothers and guests, such as asking for and receiving help, in falling down and getting up again, that both challenges and changes me. As I go, as I lean into this life, I am being healed.

When one of the lepers recognized his healing, he returned to thank Jesus. Jesus asked: “Where are the nine? Were not ten healed?” Giving thanks seems simple. It can be such a challenge. I wish I could say thanksgiving is my first and primary response, yet often when I glimpse healing, I immediately wanted more,            something bigger, better, or what someone else receives. I also often wish I was further along, fully healed, no longer in need.

Retreat offers time and space to return, renew, and refresh basic prayers like “have mercy” and thank you.” Retreat also offers time to listen deeply. What is Jesus’ response? What the invitation for you today? Retreat may offer perspective. We may get a glimpse of insight into how God is at work in our lives, of how healing has and is happening. Today with Jesus ask for mercy and give thanks.