Washed Clean

Lectio:

Twenty-eighth Sunday in Ordinary Time
Lectionary: 144

Reading 12 KGS 5:14-17

Naaman went down and plunged into the Jordan seven times
at the word of Elisha, the man of God.
His flesh became again like the flesh of a little child,
and he was clean of his leprosy.

Naaman returned with his whole retinue to the man of God.
On his arrival he stood before Elisha and said,
"Now I know that there is no God in all the earth,
except in Israel.
Please accept a gift from your servant."

Elisha replied, "As the LORD lives whom I serve, I will not take it;"
and despite Naaman's urging, he still refused.
Naaman said: "If you will not accept,
please let me, your servant, have two mule-loads of earth,
for I will no longer offer holocaust or sacrifice
to any other god except to the LORD."

Studium:

Naaman, an army commander had leprosy and had tried many cures.  None worked.  His wife's servant, an Israeli, recommended that Naaman present himself to Elisha, the prophet in Israel for advice. At first, Naaman wasn't going to do this but he was desperate to try anything.  So he went to Elisha.  When Elisha told Naaman to dunk himself into the Jordan, he thought he was kidding.  Naaman even wondered if Elisha was making fun of him.  But at the urging of his wife and her servant, he gave it a try.  This is the background to 2 Kings 5: 14-17.

Meditatio:

Well, I know the shame associated with illness and its associated desperation.  The desperation forces one to overcome the shame. Naaman, as I, appealed to God for help.  Naaman was not Israeli and worshipped other gods, but when Elisha's God cured him when nothing else worked, Naaman became a believer.  My faith was strengthened as I became healthier and healthier.  To God belongs the glory.

Oratio:

More importantly, was Naaman's inner change.  Before encountering God's power he was arrogant and proud.  When meeting the mercy of God, Naaman was humbled and thankful.  Naaman saw and believed.

Contemplatio:

Lord, give all the grace to believe.  Heal all who come to you that they may be humbled and grateful.

Resolutio:

My prayers tonight will be thanksgiving for my many blessings.