Let me talk about the Shunammite, the second woman in 2 Kings 4. (In an earlier post, I wrote about the first woman, a Prophet’s Widow.) Do read the biblical chapter from verse 8 for some background before you continue.
Here’s what I learned from the reading:
1. Good Deeds Create Goodwill
In the story, the Shunammite woman would prepare a meal for Prophet Elisha whenever he passed through town. And then, unprompted, she upped the generosity ante by building a small loft so he would have a comfortable place to stay too.
Touched by the woman’s kindness, the Prophet asked what he could do for her.
Now, there are people who ask for help and then, there are those who are offered help without even asking. Their good deeds bring blessings.
In Part One, I wrote about goodwill. But this instalment goes deeper. We learn not to waste it on what we do not need, and to not be greedy.
The Shunammite woman didn’t lack the influence or access offered by Elisha. She already had those things, and so didn’t squander her goodwill chip on the superfluous. She saved it for more important things.
2. Don’t Look Down on the Help
It’s curious that even though the woman was in the room, Elisha spoke to her through his servant, Gehazi. Perhaps, it was a cultural thing. But she wasn’t the least bit offended.
It was this same servant who finally discerned what was of value to her – a child – and who advocated for it.
3. Bitterness Has no Value. Stay Focused
Alas, though the child came, he died young. But, rather than weeping or discussing the matter with her husband, who had no power to rectify the issue, she went back to the source of the blessing.
The one who creates miracles has the power to sustain them. Keep your eyes on God.
4. Do Things in Person
Important matters are best discussed in person, not by email or through an emissary. Go yourself. This shows intent and seriousness.
If she hadn’t gone herself, no one else would have had the clout to insist that the man of God come himself to solve the problem.
It was a good idea he followed the woman, as his servant (who was sent ahead) couldn’t handle things. Only the prophet could, and he brought the child back to life.
5. Interesting Postscript
You see that influence and access that the Shunammite thought she didn’t need?
In 2 Kings 8, the same servant Gehazi, paves the way for her to receive her property back, after having been away from Israel for 7 years, due to a famine.
It just so happened that Gehazi was regaling the King with stories about Elisha’s works, including the one about raising her son back to life.
As the story was being told, she stepped into the King’s court. And because of this strange coincidence, she received her request to reclaim her land, and an additional bounty.
Uncanny how far goodwill can go, isn’t it?
What did you learn from the story and what struck you the most?
Thank you for reading.