Jesus emphasizes sin, forgiveness, faith, and thankfulness in Luke 17:1-19. Two truths are explained concerning sin and responsibility for sin. Do not cause others to sin by tempting them to follow the wrong path. Instead, hold each other accountable to routine duties in life but forgive each other if there are missteps along the way.

The apostles wanted their faith increased and Jesus told them that faith as small as a mustard seed has the power to tell a mulberry tree “Be uprooted and planted in the sea” and it will obey (v. 6). To build up our faith, we can plant seeds of God’s principles into our soul. We can watch these principles grow in the garden of our soul; producing food for ourselves and others to be nourished.

Jesus explains the right attitude toward service. One should never complain about the work but humbly do what we are told to do with hope for a reward always pushing us forward. Each day we can wake up and dream and believe because God can make everything better if we continue to have a deep abiding trust in Him.

Reading further, we get a lesson on being thankful when Jesus sees ten lepers on His way to Jerusalem and tells them to go present themselves to a priest who would declare them clean. When each turned to obey, they were healed. Only one of them returned back to Jesus to offer thanks.

This Day with You Lord, we are grateful for Your blessings and this gratitude will be with us throughout the day. We may face some difficult times but right now we give You praise. We praise You for Your wonders and for Your promises for our future. Amen.

Image Source