Staying Open

There is a great story in the book of 2 Kings (chapter 5) in which Naaman, a commander of an enemy army gets leprosy. He hears that there is a prophet named Elisha in Israel who may be able to heal him. In all humility, Naaman seeks out the prophet and asks for help. I just have to imagine it would not have been easy for this “military brass” to show any sign of weakness much less to ask for help from the enemy. He clearly must have been out of options.

Of all things, the prophet Elisha won’t even see the commander, but instead, he sends Naaman to bathe in the Jordan River. There would be no great show of power, no lavish attention, no special prayers, just a swim in a muddy river. Not exactly what Naaman was expecting. He becomes indignant, angry. However, he was also desperate for healing. So once again, he humbles himself. He follows Elisha’s orders, and he is healed.

This story just reminds me that on the journey of life, things don’t always go according to our expectations. Our plans and our dreams don’t always work out as we’d hoped. There are unexpected detours all along the way. But if we are open and humble, we find that God does provide.

Let us pray: Loving God, we recognize that you do not always work in concert with our expectations. Your healing and redemption often come in unexpected ways through unexpected means. Keep us open to new possibilities and to your leading. The next time our plans fall apart; or, the next time life throws us a curveball, remind us again of Naaman’s humility and your healing grace. We ask in Jesus’ name. Amen.