Discovering the Transformative Love of God

Discovering the Transformative Love of God

In all circumstances, give thanks to the Lord.

This timeless truth is exemplified in the story of a little boy who once asked a priest, “Am I going to meet God one day?” The priest confidently replied, “For sure, God will meet you one day.”

A few years later, the boy was diagnosed with cancer, and doctors informed him he had only six months to live. Faced with this devastating news, the boy’s father expressed his sorrow, saying, “John, I’m so sorry to hear this.” But the boy replied, “Yes, it’s sad, but it could have been worse. I give thanks to the Lord.”

Confused, the boy was asked, “What could have been worse?” The boy responded, “Living over 90 years without discovering the love of God. It’s better to live just 24 years, as I have, knowing that God loves me. It would have been a waste if I hadn’t discovered this love.” Two months later, the boy passed away, but with a heart full of gratitude and joy, having encountered the transformative love of God.

Cleansed vs. Healed

Today’s readings call us to gratitude, just as the story of the ten lepers in the Gospel teaches. All ten called out to Jesus, “Master, have pity on us,” and Jesus, moved with compassion, told them to show themselves to the priests. On their way, all ten were cleansed.

However, only one—a Samaritan—returned to thank Jesus. Why did the others not return? Perhaps they were too overjoyed or took their healing for granted. The key distinction here is that all were cleansed externally, but the Samaritan realized he had been healed internally. Healing involves transformation, a deeper recognition of God’s presence and power in our lives.

This story challenges us to reflect: how often do we take life’s blessings for granted? How often do we credit ourselves for our successes, failing to see God’s hand at work? Gratitude involves more than acknowledging the gift; it is about recognizing and cherishing the Giver.

An Encounter with Christ is Transformative

St. Paul reminds us that an encounter with Christ is transformative. Being touched by His love changes us, moving us from cleansing to healing, and from healing to glorifying God. Like the boy who discovered God’s love and the Samaritan who returned to Jesus, our lives can be transformed when we live with hearts full of gratitude and worship.

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Discovering the Transformative Love of God