In the dramatic healing of Naaman, our focus might at first be on the prophet and the powerful general. However, there is much value in spending some time considering the more peripheral characters: the young Israelite slave girl and Naaman’s own attendants.
The slave girl – a young, displaced person on the margins of society – cares for Naaman enough to point out where he can find healing in her homeland. Later, when Naaman angrily rejects the prophet Elisha's instructions as too simple, his servants intervene. They take the brave and risky step of convincing him to follow the seemingly mundane instructions to wash in the river.
The story reminds us that God’s transformative work often begins with small actions and ordinary people. As CAFOD volunteer Queen puts it: “No matter how little it is, each and every individual will be able to do something.”
Let’s allow this reading to challenge us to see God at work in unexpected places, and to trust that our small actions of compassion and love can make a real difference.
Spirit of God,
show us the places in need of your love,
so we may share your compassion and healing
with all our global family.
Amen.
Watch our video and find out more about the story of our inspiring volunteer Queen
