Are You Listening?

Readings for Monday March 28, 2011

First Reading: 2 Kings 5:1-15
Responsorial Psalm: Psalm 42; 43
Gospel: Luke 4:24-30


He returned with his whole retinue to the man of God. On his arrival he stood before him and said, "Now I know that there is no God in all the earth, except in Israel." (2 Kings 5:15)

In today's first reading, we see how Naaman the Syrian had been cured by Elisha the prophet. We read about his process of conversion, and how he became very humble and astounded by the great works of the Lord. He came to realize that no one else on earth has the power to cure like God does. This high ranking army commander, who had a lot of power and prestige, humbled himself after being cured, and came back to the prophet Elisha to admit that there is no other God.

When Naaman had first went to Elisha about his leprosy, he was told by the prophet to go wash seven times in the Jordan river. Naaman was very confused by this and became angry because he thought that the prophet would come out and invoke God with some big fancy hoopla type of ceremony. Naaman expected what many of us all expect, for God to work a miracle through some big clear sign that may come in the form of a burning bush or an angel appearing. Many times we fail to see the subtlety of God until later, it is then that we humble ourselves like Naaman and recognize how amazing God is.

We must remember, God does not speak to us through giant neon signs that fall from heaven; He speaks to us in the everyday events, through the small whispers in life; and in order to hear Him, we must be listening.

Father above, we thank you for the gift of this day. Lord, we are your people, increase our faith so that we may serve you without wavering. Lord, we love you and praise you for the many blessings in our life. We pray for all those who are searching for you and searching for meaning in their life. May they come to know your love and mercy. We ask this all through Christ our Lord. Amen.