They all recognize the miracle that is taking place as they make their way to the priest. How pleased they are. How proud to be able to present themselves to the priest, as Jewish law requires. One among them is a Samaritan however, a half-breed, part Jew, part Assyrian. He knows Who has healed him; he is going to go back and show his appreciation.
Jesus asks , "Where are the other nine?" He is notably disappointed. "Were they not all healed?"
"Lord, they are on their way to the priest. I am sorry --I did not go...Oh my Lord and my God! ...I must worship You! I must Thank You!" This man throws himself down at Jesus' feet and is crying and laughing and is exuberant with joy. Some of the people in the crowd are a little worried to be around him and back away but the Blessed Mother approaches the man with a loving touch upon his arm. She seems familiar with him as she whispers something in his ear. She then turns and signals to Mary Magdelene to bring her a package. I can see that it is another work of love that the women have prepared for the poor and needy. They are sending him on his way with clean clothing.
What beautiful human love is shown here! Jesus shows us the way of love, the "good" Samaritan responds with an outburst of exaltation and praise from a human heart full of love. The Marys complete it all with their charitable acts, anticipated in advance.
It is so evident here that Jesus favors this man's spontaneous response to His healing, though the law required that he should have shown himself to the priest. Even though the nine were, in fact, obeying Jesus with their actions, Jesus clearly shows His delight in this one man's response.
I imagine that the nine were more concerned with following religious laws than they were in following the law of the heart.
