Deut 24:8a In cases of defiling skin diseases, be very careful to do exactly as the Levitical priests instruct you….
I found it interesting that my two primary readings today, Deut 24 and 2 Kings 5, both dealt in part with leprosy and healing. When two readings deal with similar themes, it’s often a sign that there is an issue there that needs exploring or addressing within myself. And since leprosy is not a condition I am afflicted with, I’m forced to look more closely at Naaman’s behavior.
Deut 24:8b …You must follow carefully what I have commanded them.
Naaman came to Elisha for help, but clearly he had a preconceived notion of how that help would be given. He expected Elisha to talk with him face to face, and he expected a cure that involved more than “Go and wash in the Jordan.” His anger at not receiving what he expected almost cost him his healing. That is an incredibly sobering thought. Anger and preconceived expectations are both issues for me. I hear You, Lord.
2 Kings 5:9 So Naaman came with his horses and chariots and stood at the door of Elisha’s house.
Lord, Thank You for this day, for this scripture, for pointing out areas that are keeping me from You. Your timing, as always, is impeccable. I hear You. I am listening. Draw me closer. Amen.
2 Kings 5:10 And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored, and you shall be clean.”
Have a blessed day.
My faith, my life, my teaching–it's all a work in progress.