Gratitude

Luke 17 – Parable of the Ten Lepers

[11] And it came to pass, as he (Jesus) went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.
[12] And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:
[13] And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.
[14] And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.
[15] And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,
[16] And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.
[17] And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
[18] There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.
[19] And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

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Robert W. Woodruff, a prominent business leader of a former time said that the two most important words in the English language are these: Thank you.

Gracias, danke, merci whatever language is spoken, thank you frequently expressed will cheer your spirit, broaden your friendships, and lift your lives to a higher pathway as you journey toward perfection. There is a simplicity even a sincerity when thank you is spoken.

-President Thomas S. Monson

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“Gratitude is of the very essence of worship. … When you walk with gratitude, you do not walk with arrogance and conceit and egotism, you walk with a spirit of thanksgiving that is becoming to you and will bless your lives”. Sincerely giving thanks not only helps us recognize our blessings, it also unlocks the doors of heaven and helps us feel God’s love.”

–President Gordon B Hinckley, “With a Grateful Heart”, Liahona, Aug 1999

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Thou shalt thank the Lord thy God in all things.

Doctrine & Covenants 59:7

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And he who receiveth all things with thankfulness shall be made glorious; and the things of this earth shall be added unto him, even an hundred fold, yea, more.

Doctrine & Covenants 78:19

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I was in second grade during the school year 1968-69. I had a kind teacher named Mrs. Gomes who inspired me.

After that school year, my family moved to another part of town. I never saw Mrs. Gomes again.

But this afternoon, I looked up her phone number. I called her and spoke with her for first time in 42 years. I thanked her for being a wonderful teacher.

So I challenge you to think of someone from your past who has helped you.

Call, visit, or write to that person to thank them. Then share your story with me if you like.

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May the Lord bless you,
Tom Irvine

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