Spirit of Gratitude

“Now on his way to Jerusalem, Jesus traveled along the border between Samaria and Galilee.
As he was going into a village, ten men who had leprosy met him.  They stood at a distance and
called out in a loud voice, “Jesus, Master, have pity on us!”  When he saw them, he said, “Go, show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went, they were cleansed.  One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice.  He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan.  Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?” Then he said to him, “Rise and go; your faith has made you well.” Luke 17:11-19 (Emphasis is mine)


Dear Friends,

​Especially during this time of year, I truly appreciate this passage of scripture.  But, when I read it this time, I had an “Aa Ha” experience which caused me to wonder, “Why did only one man come back to thank Jesus?  Was it poor upbringing of the nine men?  Or were the other men not very thankful?”  The text goes on to say that one particular man noticed he was healed and he came back praising God in a loud voice and threw himself at the feet of Jesus.  Now that is thankful and Jesus points out this man was not even a Jew but a lowly foreigner, meaning a Samaritan.  Nevertheless, this man experienced true healing – Jesus healed his heart as well as his body.
 
I have come to understand that the greatest way to acknowledge God’s goodness in our lives is not only to thank him, but also to live our lives in the spirit of gratitude. 
 
As I write this letter, my heart is filled with thanks and gratitude.  I am so thankful to God for His grace and mercy in my life.  I am thankful that God has chosen City Impact to minister to children, youth and families on a daily basis.  I am thankful to our staff and board for their commitment to our community.  I would be remiss if I did not take this opportunity to thank you all for your love, commitment, prayers and your financial support.  City Impact continues because of God’s grace and your involvement.       
 
With my gratitude,
Betty Alvarez Ham
President
 
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City Impact’s 25th Anniversary is coming in 2020 watch for celebration updates!