The Rev. Emily Boring

This sermon contemplates the ten healed lepers, especially the nine who did

not return to thank Jesus. Their silence is explored with empathy—shock,

fear, or unready hearts may explain their absence. Healing, the preacher

reminds, has stages. The Samaritan who does return becomes the first

“Eucharistic disciple,” giving thanks to Jesus with the same word that

grounds the Church’s central act of thanksgiving. His gratitude mirrors the

pattern of worship: confession, mercy, praise, and shared communion.

Gratitude, the sermon concludes, is not demanded but discovered; it moves

us toward action, generosity, and joy. Stewardship is the living out of

that thankful turning—faith made visible.