In the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, it’s easy to take things for granted and overlook the blessings around us. As teenagers, navigating the ups and downs of school, relationships, and personal growth, it’s crucial to cultivate a grateful heart. In this Sunday School lesson, we will dive into Luke 17:11-19, where Jesus heals ten lepers and teaches us about the power of gratitude. Let’s explore why gratitude is important for teenagers to grow their faith.
Bible Reading: Luke 17:11-19
“On the way to Jerusalem he was passing along between Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered a village, he was met by ten lepers, who stood at a distance and lifted up their voices, saying, ‘Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.’ When he saw them he said to them, ‘Go and show yourselves to the priests.’ And as they went they were cleansed. Then one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, praising God with a loud voice; and he fell on his face at Jesus’ feet, giving him thanks. Now he was a Samaritan. Then Jesus answered, ‘Were not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?’ And he said to him, ‘Rise and go your way; your faith has made you well.'” (Luke 17:11-19, ESV)
Explanation: Recognizing God’s Provision and Responding with Gratitude
- Context: Jesus encounters ten lepers who cry out for mercy and healing from their affliction.
- Miraculous Healing: Jesus instructs them to go to the priests, and as they go, they are cleansed.
- Grateful Response: Only one of the ten, a Samaritan, returns to thank Jesus and express gratitude for the healing.
- Jesus’ Observation: Jesus questions the absence of the other nine, recognizing the lack of gratitude in their hearts.
- Faith Made Whole: The grateful leper’s faith is commended, and he is declared “made well.”
Discussion Questions
- How do you think the ten lepers felt when Jesus healed them?
- Why do you think only one leper returned to express gratitude?
- In what ways do you personally struggle with being grateful?
- How can practicing gratitude strengthen your faith and relationship with God?
- What are some practical ways we can cultivate a grateful heart in our daily lives?
Youth Group Game: “Gratitude Scavenger Hunt”
Divide the teenagers into teams and provide each team with a list of items or experiences they need to find or complete that evoke gratitude. Examples could include finding something in nature that they are grateful for, performing a random act of kindness, or writing a thank-you note to someone who has impacted their lives. The first team to complete all the tasks wins!
Closing Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father,
We thank you for the gift of this day and for your immeasurable love and grace in our lives. Help us to recognize and appreciate the blessings you have bestowed upon us. Teach us to have grateful hearts, even in the midst of challenges. May we grow in faith and always be quick to express our gratitude to you and to others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Remember, cultivating gratitude is a lifelong journey. Encourage the teenagers to consistently practice gratitude and reflect on the blessings in their lives, helping them grow in their faith and develop a heart of thankfulness.