Main Thought
Greed is everywhere in our society. There is an endless desire for “more” all around us: more of some product, service, or money. This consumerism is one expression of greed. Greed is also expressed when we care about things that benefit us in a way that excludes or ignores others. We can think of greed as a poision to the soul. Thankfully, after one of his miraculous encounters, Jesus recognizes an individual whose actions reveal the antidote to the greed. The antidote to greed is gratitude! Gratitude allows you to see with greater perspective. It causes us to appreciate the things we have, many of which are more important than the things we don’t have. Gratitude also produces the grace to follow God. When we’re grateful, we can see that our blessings in God outweigh our challenges. Finally, gratitude provides a place of peace and salvation. It helps us find rest in a world that’s gone mad.
Main Passages
“On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” When he saw them he said to them, “Go and show yourselves to the priests.” And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus' feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, “Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?” And he said to him, “Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.”
- Luke 17:11-19
“Oh give thanks to the Lord, for he is good, for his steadfast love endures forever! “
- Psalm 107:1
“Even though the fig trees have no blossoms, and there are no grapes on the vines; even though the olive crop fails, and the fields lie empty and barren; even though the flocks die in the fields, and the cattle barns are empty yet I will rejoice in the Lord! I will be joyful in the God of my salvation!”
- Habakuk 3:17-18 (NLT)
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Has gratitude ever helped you endure a frustrating or difficult situation? If so, how?
What’s one current challenge you’re facing? Try to think of one thing you can be grateful for in the midst of that situation, and share that with your group.