Naaman, Leprosy and God

GOSPEL THOUGHTS

*Lenten Season  : Third Week: Monday*

*Gospel : Lk 4:24-30*

*First Reading : 2 Kgs 5:1-15ab*

*Naaman, Leprosy and God*

*1) Naaman the Powerful Man*

The first reading of the day speaks about the caliber of Naaman 

Naaman, was the army commander of the king of Aram

He was highly esteemed and respected by his master,

He played a very important role in bringing the victory to Aram.

He was vert valiant, it means he was very courageous

This shows the power of Naaman

*2) The Sickness of Naaman*

Even through he was so powerful, he was suffering from leprosy

Because of this sickness, he had become helpless, in spite of his powerful position 

His powerful position didn't help him in any way in getting rid of his leprosy 

This incident clearly shows us, when sickness comes, no position helps us. One has to face the sickness by all means 

*3) Cure of the Leprosy*

Naaman the leper finally learns from the servant Girl about the prophet and the God of Israel

Since Naaman knew that nothing works for his leprosy, he wanted to try the divine assistance in handling his sickness

That is how he comes to the Prophet, with the guidance of the slave girl and presents himself to the prophet

When Prophet told him to take bath in the river Jordan, he was cured 

He praised God of Israel for this great Healing

*4) God is the source of all good things*

From the incident of Naaman it is very clear that without God one can do nothing 

So he finally came to meet the prophet and to get rid of his leprosy

Some times no power on earth will save us. But in such a situation asking God's grace and facing the situation, with the grace of God would become meaningful 

God is the source of all good things. Naaman also experienced the same 

*5) God can't be replaced*

There is a strong tendency in today's world to replace God with science and other things 

But the incident of Naaman clearly shows us, God can't be replaced with anything 

Instead God is the climax of everything in life 

There is no challenge for God's power 

*6) How about my Life?*

Do I depend on my muscle power? 

Do I depend of my material strength? 

Do I depend on power, position, influence, wealth and so on? 

Do I depend on God? 

*Think about it*

*God bless you and your family. Praying for you and your dear ones*

*Fr Maxim DSouza*

*Jeppu Seminary*

*Mangalore*