First Reading:  2 Kings 4:8-11, 14-16a

God Cannot Be Outdone!

Who has shown you hospitality lately? How have you shown your appreciation for their goodness?

The story of Elisha and the hospitable Shunammite woman showed that generosity shown comes back to bless the giver. This was not a dynamic principle of the spiritual world, like "karma," but a simple reflection on human nature. The sincerely generous were more apt to freely receive, to share the good of others as they extended a helping hand.

The rich woman first gave meals to the wandering prophet, Elisha; then she prepared him a room to use when he was in the vicinity. In return, God blessed the elderly, barren woman with child, despite her misgivings. As the woman shared her wealth with God's man in his need, so God would share his creative wealth with the woman in her need.

Elisha and his mentor, Elijah, roamed the area known in Jesus' time as Galilee. They prophesied and worked mighty miracles, so their countrymen would return to the Lord. Jesus modeled himself after these two giants of faith. Like these prophets, Jesus wandered the countryside, preaching and healing. At the same time, he depended upon the hospitality and good will of the people he met. Like the Shunammite woman, their reward would be great! For God cannot be outdone!

Plan to show hospitality to a neighbor or acquintance this week. Extend yourself in the name of Christ.