Alms for an ex-leper - a theology of thanksgiving for a borderline community

What do Monty Python, a Canadian hog-farmer's wife, and Luke 17 have to do with LSF Victoria's 50th anniversary? In Luke 17, we find the beginnings of a theology of thanksgiving for a 'borderline community.' In some ways Tertiary Ministry will always be on the margins, on the borders between 'in' and 'out' of the church. And that's great, because the borderlines and the margins are where Jesus is found. Like the Samaritan leper, we too can immerse ourselves in thanksgiving rather than anxiety and fear, or discontent. This sermon, based on Luke 17:11-19, was preached at LSF-Victoria's 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service on Sunday 18th September 2011 at St John's Southgate. Enjoy!