The Greek word Luke uses for the leper’s thanksgiving in today’s story is “eucharistein”. And we are here now because we know that the best possible way of expressing our thanks to God for all his gifts is through participation in the Holy Eucharist. Here is made present Christ’s self gift to the end: his body offered for us in sacrifice, his blood poured out for us. Here Jesus gives us himself, not in part, but wholly. He gives not of course craving our gratitude, but freely, simply, out of love. Yet we are the ones who will benefit if we receive him with open hearts and minds; if we notice what he has done for us, and return due thanks. Having that attitude of mind we will truly live the Eucharist, and receive from it the life, blessing, health and holiness Jesus wants to give us.