Culture and Ideas · November 13, 2026
Also published in Português (Brasil)
Your faith has healed you
On November 10, 2026, a significant event is commemorated in the Christian liturgical calendar, specifically the feast of Saint Martin of Tours. The passage referenced includes teachings from Tt 3:1-7, Ps 23, and Łk 17:11-19.
The narrative recounts an encounter Jesus had as He was traveling to Jerusalem, passing through the border of Samaria and Galilee. Upon entering a village, ten lepers approached Him from a distance, crying out, "Jesus, Master, have mercy on us!" Jesus instructed them to go and show themselves to the priests, and as they went, they were cleansed of their leprosy. However, only one of them, upon realizing he was healed, returned to glorify God with a loud voice, fell at Jesus' feet, and thanked Him. This leper was identified as a Samaritan.
Jesus noted that although ten lepers were cleansed, only one returned to give thanks. He questioned, "Were there not ten cleansed? Where are the nine? Was there no one found to return and give praise to God except this foreigner?" To the returning Samaritan, Jesus declared, "Rise and go; your faith has made you well." This statement emphasizes the importance of gratitude and faith, suggesting that the Samaritan's return was not only a physical healing but also a spiritual one.
The context highlights that lepers were required by Mosaic Law to live in isolation to protect others from infection, which illustrates the theme of societal separation based on fear. It draws parallels to modern behaviors where individuals may isolate themselves or others out of fear. The narrative also serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing and responding to God's blessings, urging individuals to maintain sensitivity to divine gifts throughout their lives, regardless of their background or distance from faith.
The reflections encourage believers to learn from the grateful Samaritan, fostering a spirit of wonder and appreciation for God's actions in their lives.