In the first reading, the woman of Shunem recognized that Elisha was a man of God. She did not merely greet him with words; she made room for him, prepared food for him, and even provided a small room where he could rest. Her kindness opened the door to a miracle. Though she had no child and had almost lost hope, God blessed her with a son through the prayer of the prophet.
Jesus says in the Gospel: “Whoever receives you receives me… and whoever receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward” (Matthew 10:40–41).
This is a serious invitation. To welcome the servant of God is to welcome Christ Himself. To support the work of evangelization is to share in its blessings. The reward is not only material; it can be peace in the family, healing of relationships, renewed faith, divine protection, spiritual growth, and even unexpected answers to prayer.
Today, many priests, religious, missionaries, catechists, choir members, parish volunteers, and lay evangelizers serve quietly but face many challenges. Some are criticized unfairly, insulted, misunderstood, neglected, or discouraged. In a world marked by secularism and anti-Christian attitudes, those who preach the Gospel can easily become targets of mockery and hostility.
But brothers and sisters, the Church needs encouragers. The Church needs people like the woman of Shunem—people who see the burden carried by God’s servants and ask: “How can I help?”
You may not be able to preach like a priest or travel like a missionary, but you can receive a prophet’s reward by:
- Praying for priests, religious, missionaries, and Church leaders.
- Speaking respectfully about those who serve the Church.
- Supporting parish work with your time, gifts, and resources.
- Encouraging those who are tired or discouraged in ministry.
- Welcoming the Word of God when it challenges you.
Sometimes we want the blessing of God, but we reject the messenger God sends to correct, guide, or challenge us. We want a comfortable Gospel, but not a Gospel that calls us away from sin. Yet St. Paul reminds us today: “We must consider ourselves dead to sin and alive for God in Christ Jesus” (Romans 6:11).
The greatest prophet we must receive is Jesus Himself. When we receive His Word, His Church, His Sacraments, and His call to conversion, we receive eternal life.
May the Lord give us the generous heart of the woman of Shunem: a heart that recognizes God’s servants, supports the mission of the Church, and welcomes Christ in those He sends to us.
And may we receive the prophet’s reward: not only blessings in this life, but the joy of eternal life in heaven.
Amen.
