Introduction: Thursday is not "Turkey Day," "Football Day," or "Watch the Parade on TV Day!" Thursday is Thanksgiving, an important spiritual holiday for America. The origin of Thanksgiving: (see Lincoln’s Proclamation). This morning I would like to show you three reasons to be thankful, that we see in this story of the healing of the lepers.

I. There is always something to be thankful about.
(See Roy Exum’s 99 Reasons)

A. This Samaritan leper had a lot to be thankful over!
B. We take too much for granted! Each of us has much to give thanks for: life, health, living in America, family and friends, etc.
C. But, how can you give thanks when times are hard?
1. When your arm has just been broken? It could have been an eye, or a broken neck.
D. Even in the worst situation, we can give thanks that there is a reason for it, even if we don't know the reason (as with Job).

II. The Spirit of Thankfulness leads to salvation.

A. Note: The Samaritan was already healed before he came back to say thank you. But he gained much by coming back: salvation
verse 19 "Your faith has made you well." in NIV
Literal Greek: Your faith has saved you.
The other nine had only their bodies healed. He also was healed in his soul.
B. The unbeliever may enjoy a sunset, but the believer enjoys it twice as much, when he/she gives thanks to the Creator.
C. When we are ungrateful, we harm ourselves, and displease our Heavenly Father.

III. A thankful person is a blessing to everyone around him/her.

A. The Samaritan's thankfulness was a blessing to Jesus; to the disciples; and to the millions who have since read this story.
B. Would you rather be in the company of thankful people, or complainers?
C. Ingratitude is a serious sin that leads to stupidity, to more sin, and to damnation if persisted in (see Romans 1:21-24).
D. The Israelites complained constantly, and had to wander in the wilderness 40 years until all the complainers died. DON'T BE A COMPLAINER!

Conclusion: BE A THANKFUL PERSON THIS THANKSGIVING BECAUSE:

1. There is always something to be thankful about.
2. Thankfulness leads to salvation.
3. Your thankful spirit will bless everyone around you, and please the Lord