Reflection for Monday of the Third Week of Lent
Consider the healing of Naaman the Syrian. He was greatly distressed by his leprosy and wanted to be healed of his affliction. Jesus returns to His home town today and speaks in the synagogue. He nearly gets Himself killed when He mentions the widow of Sidon and Naaman the Syrian. So, why is Naaman so special? Why was he healed?
It took a great deal of faith on Naaman’s part to go to Israel seeking healing. When he came to Israel, the King rejected his plea. He could have given up, yet he continued and went to meet Elisha the prophet. Naaman had shown a good deal of gumption to keep on this long. He had faith that the God of Israel could heal him, even though he didn’t worship the Lord.
All was going well, and then Naaman’s pride got in the way. He received word from Elisha to bathe in the Jordan River. He refused to bath in those muddy waters. Naaman’s servant stopped him from leaving and encouraged him to bath in the Jordan. So, he bathed in the Jordan River seven times. He became healed. His faith was rewarded.
Make no mistake. You will be tempted to give up in life, on faith as well as your endeavors. When you feel the temptation to give up on an important task or on faith, keep going. Put your trust in Jesus, and pray for a resolution. When you want to be healed, God will oblige you just as He healed Naaman the Syrian. May you find the healing and peace you need this Lent! Amen.
Reflection by Br. Matthew Marie, OSB
Posted in Daily Reflections, Lenten Resources