In today’s first reading, the prophet Elisha is the recipient of an extraordinary kindness. A prominent woman of Shunem has invited him into her home; a friendship springs up, and the woman encourages her husband to create a guest room where the man of God may stay whenever he passes through. As an expression of his gratitude, Elisha summons his hostess and asks how he may repay her kindness. Her response, however, is stiff, almost cold: she is living in her own house among her own people; she needs nothing from him. Somewhat taken aback, Elisha asks his servant Gehazi if there is anything he can do. Gehazi’s response is immediate: their hostess longs for a child. Upon learning this, the prophet declares that within a year, the woman of Shunem will be holding her longed-for son. Her response is once again guarded, almost hostile: “you’re a man of God; do not deceive your servant” (2 Kings 4:16). Nevertheless, Elisha’s word comes to pass (v.17). 

In the story of the Shunammite woman, we may see a shadow of our own love, our own pride, and our own fears. The woman will not ask anything of the prophet lest she be perceived as scheming or manipulative. Her gift was freely offered—she has received “a prophet because he is a prophet” (Matt. 10:41) and not for her own gain. She is proud as well—a wealthy, prominent woman, she will not be seen as a charity case, does not want anyone’s pity. And she is afraid—afraid to hope, afraid of empty promises and a broken heart (2 Kings 4:28). “Whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward” (Matt. 10:41). The Shunammite woman did receive her longed-for son. But even more, in opening her home and her heart to Elisha, the Shunammite woman dared to open her proud, fearful, injured heart to Elisha’s God. In doing so, she received the true “prophet’s reward”: hope, love, pain, heartbreak, and triumph. “Amen, I say to you, [she] will surely not lose [her] reward” (Matt. 10:42). 

Reflection by Parishioner Kathryn Wilmotte