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Story Archives: Never assume the story has ended


Never assume the story has ended
by Jo Ann Cooper - posted E-mail Story E-mail Story | Print Story Print Story 
2 Kings 5 introduces us to a great commander named Naaman. Despite the fact that he is highly regarded by the Syrian king and carries a celebrated reputation for his military victories, he finds himself in dire straits. He has leprosy.

This 9th century B.C. story that demonstrates God's holiness and compassion is still celebrated today. The story concerning Naaman also offers the contemplative reader an opportunity to evaluate one's level of pride and the dangers of preconceived ideas.

If we look outside of the suffering and concern such a diagnosis might bring, we may possibly find ourselves with a bit of a smirk at how Naaman expects to be treated by the Old Testament prophet Elisha and how the encounter actually takes place. It would appear that Elisha isn't impressed by Naaman's military status or the gifts he brings. Or, it could be that Elisha simply doesn't want to have physical contact with someone diagnosed with such a highly contagious disease such as leprosy.
For the full report, see Page 5A of this week's Citizen.

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Jo Ann Cooper is a United Methodist pastor of the LA Conference.


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