
Letters From Home Thanksgiving Day - Ms. Joan Watson
Nov 27, 2025
Joan Watson discusses the unique liturgical context of Thanksgiving, focusing on the Gospel of Luke 17:11-19. She highlights the lepers' social exclusion and their faith by going to the priests before healing. The reflection emphasizes the importance of gratitude, particularly through the example of the grateful Samaritan and the breaking of societal barriers by Jesus. Watson also encourages listeners to count their blessings, overcome default ingratitude, and cherish even the smallest gifts, inviting them to deepen their faith and love.
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Faith Acts Before Evidence
- The ten lepers obey Jesus and go to the priests before seeing any sign of healing.
- Their faith in action, not visible signs, is what brings healing according to Joan Watson.
Foreigner Welcomed Into The New Temple
- The one who returns to give thanks is a Samaritan, highlighted as a foreigner in the Greek.
- Joan Watson explains Luke's use of aliganes to show Jesus welcomes Gentiles into the new temple.
Scripture Connects Temple And Gentiles
- Luke's wording echoes the temple inscription that barred foreigners beyond the balustrade.
- Joan Watson connects this to Isaiah 56 and Jesus fulfilling a vision of a house of prayer for all peoples.






