Our daily reflections follow the M'Cheyne Bible reading plan, designed for those who want to read the whole Bible in one year. Each reflection focuses on one of the chapters from that day's readings. Darllenwch rhain yn Gymraeg.
Lord, open my ears to hear what you have to say to me; open my heart to love your word, and open my mind to understand your truth.
Naaman has it all: he's a top military commander, a great man and highly regarded. But he has leprosy, one of the most feared diseases of his day. The words of a servant girl prompt him to seize the opportunity to be healed. He goes to Israel with all the wealth and power a man of his stature can muster. He even has a letter from the king.
From the palace we move to the home of the prophet and everything changes. Elisha doesn’t even go out to speak to this important visitor, instead sending the message that Naaman should go and wash himself in the Jordan seven times. Naaman is outraged. He’s used to being treated with respect. His servants can see he was expecting some grand gesture or action: 'the prophet could at least come out and wave his hand' (verse 11). But Naaman humbles himself and is healed.
So often God appears in the world in unexpected places and usually without grand gestures. A king is born in a manger and simple fishermen turn the world upside down. Titles, positions, wealth and power: we can get wrapped up in the importance of these things, but the message of grace is often found in small moments and simple acts.
God of grace, may we lose our appetite for grand gestures and see you in the small and simple. Surprise us today with unexpected moments of grace.
This reflection was written by Stuart Noble, Bible Society’s Director of Strategic Partnerships
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