2 Kgs 5:14-17 Ps 97 2 Tim 2:8-13 Lk 17:11-19
Naaman, a leper, commanded an Aramaen army which was victorious over Israel. A little Israeli girl, who became the servant of Naaman’s wife, said the prophet in Samaria could cure Naaman’s leprosy. Elisha told Naaman to bathe seven times in the Jordan. Initially Naaman refuses to do something so humble, but he is persuaded by his servant and he is cured. When Elisha refuses any reward, Naaman takes some soil back home so that he may continue to worship only the God of Israel.
Paul urges Timothy to pass on the gospel he has received, summed up in only 6 Greek words: Jesus, the Christ, anointed by God; descended from David, risen from the dead. Thus pointing to our bodily resurrection. In what sounds like a hymn from a very early baptismal liturgy we are told that “if we persevere we shall reign with him”. Not just be with Christ, but joining him in his work of caring for the renewed creation.
In Luke’s Gospel Jesus is coming closer to Jerusalem, and his death, while revealing more about his kingdom. Last week Jesus told his disciples to serve without expecting thanks. Now ten lepers are healed, like Naaman, through simple actions. Only the non-Jew returns to thank him.
Psalm Response: The Lord has shown his salvation to the nations.
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